Sun Protection
For Babies Under 6 Months

With sunny days finally upon us, it’s time to get out and lap up that much-needed vitamin D. However, we all know we should be protecting ourselves from the sun, but if you’ve recently had a baby, knowing the best way to protect their skin from harmful UV rays can be a bit of a minefield. Sun cream generally isn’t recommended for use on babies under 6 months, so we’ve teamed up with a first aid expert to round up everything you need to know about keeping their delicate skin as safe from the sun as possible.

At JoJo, we understand how important it is to have trustworthy advice, especially when it comes to something as crucial as sun protection. This is why we've written this blog in collaboration with first aid expert Emma Hammett, founder of the multi award-winning company First Aid For Life, who brings years of expertise in healthcare, teaching and paediatric first aid.

Key sun safety questions answered

Is it safe for my baby to go out in the sun?

Babies' skin is much thinner than ours (up to 15 times), which means it can burn much more quickly. They're also more sensitive to heat, so even short periods in warm weather can make them uncomfortable. For babies under 6 months, the guidance is simple: keep them out of direct sunlight as much as possible. Instead, rely on shade, lightweight clothing and clever cover-ups to protect their delicate skin.

Can sunscreen be used on babies under 6 months?

Sunscreen isn't generally recommended for babies under 6 months. Their skin is highly sensitive and may react to the ingredients, and there's also a chance little ones could rub it into their eyes or mouth. Instead, focus on:

1. Keeping them in the shade

2. Dressing them in breathable, covering layers

3. Using pram shades or protective covers

4. Once your baby is over 6 months, sunscreen can be introduced — but it should always be used alongside other sun-safe measures, not as a replacement!

How to use sunscreen (for babies 6 months+)

Once your baby is old enough, sunscreen becomes part of your sun-safety routine. Apply 15–30 minutes before going outside and cover all exposed areas (ears, face, neck, shoulders, legs and feet). Use a high SPF (30–50) with strong UVA protection. Reapply every 2 hours, and after swimming or sweating. Remember: sunscreen isn't fully waterproof and should be used even on cloudy days.

Sun covers: what’s safe and what to avoid

When it comes to shading your baby in a pram or buggy, not all solutions are created equal. Here’s a quick guide to what works and what to skip.

Avoid

Thick blankets: Covering a buggy with blankets or thick fabrics can trap heat and reduce airflow, increasing the risk of overheating.

Heavy coats: Even on breezy days, bulky layers can cause your baby to overheat quickly when combined with warm weather.

Use

Muslin cloths: Light and breathable, but not UV protective unless specifically designed with a UPF coating. They can help with airflow, but won’t block harmful rays.

Parasols: A handy add-on, but they only shade a small area and move as the sun shifts. Not all parasols are UV resistant, so they shouldn’t be relied on alone.

The humble hat

Perfect for shielding little heads from the sun and often a key item nurseries will require, baby hats are a warm weather essential (and often a lost and found one too!). To make sure they have a fighting chance of staying put, opt for styles with handy chin straps or ties and make popping one on part of every outdoor routine. Wide-brimmed hats offer extra sun protection for little faces, ears and necks, so they can stay cool, covered and ready for sunny-day exploring.

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