New mum with baby

[newmum]

I'm a new mum with a 3 week old baby. Now the sun has finally come out I'm concerned about taking by baby outside in the pram - I can put the pram hood up to offer some protection and put a hat on my baby, but I'm worred that the sun could still get to her face and arms/hands. But at the same time I'm also concerned that putting sun lotion on a baby's delicate skin is not a good idea.

I feel in between the devil and the deep blue sea- can you enlighten me?

Many thanks.

[Dr Jonathan Bowling]

Dear Newmum,
Firstly - congratulations on your baby girl!
Secondly - You are quite right to be careful and concerned on how best to look after your baby's skin when out and about. Using a pram hood and a hat will help reduce direct sunlight onto your babies skin which is very important to avoid as her skin is delicate. Consider walking on the shadier side of the street if possible to reduce glare. Depending on the make of your pram there may be a sunshade cover that can be bought to give extra protection. Large unbranded sun shades that can fit most buggies / prams are available, we found this extremely helpful with our twins in their double buggy and avoided the need for sunscreens. These shades can also help protect against midges etc. The most important point is not to leave your baby's skin exposed to direct sunlight, shaded light is usually fine with a hat. As your baby grows and becomes more mobile then consider sunscreens for toddlers to give that extra protection from burning.


In this weather don't forget a rain cover as well!
I hope this helps

Jonathan

[newmum]

Thank you so much for your reply to my concerns. I had meant to say thank you before now but my little one is keeping me busy!!!!