I plan to go camping with my five-month-old son. Can I apply sunscreen and insect repellent?

Summer is a great time for adventure; however, too much sun can be harmful. If not protected, you and your baby can develop sunburn within 15 minutes depending on the UV index.  Children need protection from the sun, insects, heat, and cold. A single sunburn can increase the risk of your child developing skin cancer later in life. Insect bites can irritate your child’s skin and can cause disease. Babies are at greater risk of getting too hot or too cold so extra care must be taken.

Health Canada recommends that babies under one-year-of-age be kept out of direct sunlight. There has been very little research done on the effects of sunscreen and insect repellents used on babies. Therefore, sunscreen and insect repellents should not be used on babies under the age of six-months. Protect your babies’ skin with the use of clothing, shade, and mosquito netting. Keep your child cool in the summer by playing in the shade of a tree, umbrella, stroller canopy, or tent. Cover their head with a wide brimmed hat. When you purchase sunglasses, ensure that they protect against both UVA and UVB rays. As you role model good sun safety, your child will too.  Minimize your child’s exposure to the sun’s rays between the hours of 11 am and 4 p.m. Avoid being outdoors when insect activity is high.

Your babies’ skin is delicate and thinner than that of an adult. Prevention of sunburn, heat stroke, and insect bites are the keys to having a safe enjoyable summer.

For more information about sunscreen and insect repellent for your child, or for available programs and services, contact Health Link Alberta where nurses are available 24-7 to provide health advice and information. Call 1-866-408-LINK (5465) or 780-408-LINK (Edmonton area) or 403-943-LINK (Calgary area).