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Warmer Weather Is Finally Here!

By Ottawa Public Health May 26, 2016

You want to be ready for when the warmer weather actually decides to stay, but sun safety isn’t as simple as buying some spray and voilà! 

Did you know it is not recommended for you to apply sunscreen to babies under 6 months of age?  When we posted this fact on the Parenting in Ottawa Facebook page, it generated some interesting questions.  Here are a few :

Q: Can babies still get burned even when in the shade?

A: The simple answer is yes. Sun can reflect off of snow, sand, and concrete. Spotted shade and light cloud cover can also allow quite a bit of UV rays to get through. Dense shade, loose-fitting clothing, hats, sunglasses, parasols/umbrellas, stroller UV covers, tall buildings, and awnings all create good UV protection. If your shadow is shorter than you, it is time to use maximum sun protection.

Q: What can I use instead to protect a 3 month old child?

A: The best thing you can do is keep your baby out of direct sunlight and cover up as best you can. Here is a link to our web site with information on sun safety for babies and toddlers http://www.parentinginottawa.com/en/babies-and-toddlers/outdoor-safety.asp

Q: What SPF is recommended and what kind of sunscreen should I use?

A: SPF 30 or higher is recommended for those over 6 months of age. Here is a link to recommended brands from the Canadian Dermatology Association http://www.dermatology.ca/programs-resources/programs/recognized-products/#!/programs-resources/programs/recognized-products/sunscreens/

We had a parent post to our page asking other parents what kind of sunscreen to use for a baby with severe eczema.  She got 25 comments with suggestions in only a few short hours.  What an amazing parenting community we have here in Ottawa!

Come check out the conversation on the Parenting In Ottawa Facebook page! It is a safe space where parents can share their experiences and ask questions, and it’s moderated by a Public Health Nurse!

Do you have questions?

·       Speak with a Public Health Nurse. Call the Ottawa Public Health Info Line (OPHIL) at 613-PARENTS [613-727-3687]  (TTY: 613-580-9656) or email Ottawa Public Health at ParentinginOttawa@ottawa.ca

·      Connect with a Public Health Nurse and other parents on the Parenting in Ottawa Facebook page

·      Visit the Parenting in Ottawa web site for information on a variety of services.