As a responsible parent, keeping your newborn or baby protected from the sun's rays should be one of your top priorities. "Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, and it only takes one blistering sunburn during childhood or adolescence to nearly double a person’s chance of developing melanoma – the most serious form of skin cancer – later in life."
While applying sunscreen is a common layer of sun protection, it is not recommended for newborns or babies because their young skin doesn’t have the ability to metabolize and get rid of the chemicals often found in sunscreens. This is where sun hats come into the picture. Baby sun hats are the final piece to that adorable wardrobe you’ve been building for your little one that offers both style and sun protection!
In this blog, we will answer some frequently asked questions about baby sun hats and also provide a list of the best sun hats for newborns and babies in 2023. Hint: we got you covered at UV Skinz!
Benefits of Sun Hat for Babies
Sun protection is important for babies as their skin is delicate and easily damaged by the sun's harmful UV rays. The most effective way to protect babies from the sun is by providing head-to-toe coverage including UPF 50+ rated sun wear and sun hats.
Here are some of the best benefits of sun hats for babies:
- Shade your little one's head, neck, and face.
- Prevent the sun's harmful rays from reaching your baby's sensitive skin.
- Reduce the chances of your baby developing skin cancer later in life.
- Protect your baby's eyes from the sun.
- Prevent your baby from overheating and getting heatstroke.
Can Newborns Wear Sunscreen?
As a parent, it's natural to want to protect your baby from the sun's harmful rays, but here's the truth, your baby can't wear sunscreen when he or she is under the age of 6 months!
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, newborns should not wear sunscreen until they are at least 6 months old, as their skin is delicate and has not yet fully developed to handle the chemicals in sunscreen. Instead, parents can use other methods like baby sun hats, shade, and baby sun blankets to safeguard their little ones from the sun's harmful UV rays. Remember, it's never too early to start protecting your baby from the sun.
How Long Do Newborns Need to Wear a Sun Hat?
Newborns should wear a sun hat whenever they are outdoors during the day, especially if they are in direct sunlight. Newborns have delicate skin that can easily be damaged by the sun's harmful UV rays, so it's important to keep them protected. If they must be in the sun, a baby sun hat can provide the necessary shade and prevent the sun's rays from reaching their sensitive skin.
Do Babies Need Sun Hats?
Yes, all babies need sun hats because they have delicate and often sensitive skin that is easily damaged by the sun's harmful UVA and UVB rays. Sun hats are an effective way to protect your baby's skin from sunburn and other issues caused by prolonged sun exposure. Plus, they really add to the outfit! Check out some of our best-selling sun hats for babies:
- Baby Boy's Reversible Sun Hat – Surfing Dinos is a personal favorite!
- Baby Girl's Reversible Sun Hat – Soaring Unicorns is just too cute!
At What Age do Babies Need Sun Hats?
Babies need sun hats from the day they are born. As soon as a baby is born, they can be exposed to the sun's harmful rays so it’s important for parents to ensure they have a suitable sun hat to protect their little ones. Babies under 6 months should be kept out of direct sunlight, use stroller shades and window shields, and of course, wear UPF 50+ protective clothing with a stylish sun hat to match. Sunglasses can also be used to protect their eyes – if you can keep them on them!
Why Does a Baby Need a UPF Sun Hat?
A UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) sun hat is an essential accessory for babies because it's designed to reduce the amount of UV radiation that reaches their delicate skin. If the material is not rated UPF, you can still get sunburn through your clothes, especially when wet!
Babies have sensitive skin that is easily damaged by the sun's harmful UV rays and a UPF sun hat offers the best protection against sunburn and other issues caused by prolonged sun exposure. It's a must-have for parents who want to keep their little ones safe and healthy while enjoying the great outdoors.
Do Newborns Have to Wear a Sun Hat?
Yes, newborns need to wear a sun hat. Early exposure to direct sunlight can lead to critical issues later in life so we want to get in front of the issue as early as possible! Newborns have delicate skin that is highly susceptible to sunburn and heatstroke making it imperative to provide extra protection from the sun's harmful rays. A sun hat is an essential accessory for shielding their head from direct sunlight.
What Should You Look for When Buying a Baby Sun Hat?
Choosing the right sun hat for your baby is important to ensure they stay protected from the sun's harmful rays. Here are some things to keep in mind when purchasing a baby sun hat:
- Find a sun hat that covers their head, face, and neck.
- Look for a wide-brimmed hat to protect their eyes and face from direct sunlight.
- Find a sun hat with a thin strap or tie to keep it in place.
- Make sure the sun hat's material is lightweight and breathable.
- Ensure the UPF rating on the baby sun hat is UPF 50+.
Best Sun Hats for Babies in 2023
Here's our list of the best sun hats for babies in 2023!
1. Baby Boys' Reversible Sun Hat in Sea Party Sharks
Talk about a cute baby boy's sun hat! This baby sun hat will keep your little one cool and also safe from the sun's harmful rays as it has a UPF 50+ rating. It's swim friendly, easy to take care of, and is also reversible, so you can style it with any of his onesies and baby boy swimsuits.
2. Baby Girls' Swim Flap Hat
Known as one of our best-selling hats for your little baby girl, this sun hat provides the best sun protection you can find. With a UPF 50+ rating and a sun hat flap, it will protect your little one's face and neck no matter where you're going. You can also wet the hat's flap to keep her cool during those hot summer months. Plus, this baby girl's sun hat is so comfortable, she won't want to take it off.
3. Baby Boys' Swim Hat
This baby boy's swim hat actually stays on and looks oh-so-cute. Its chin strap ensures it won't fly off at the beach and the wide brim will protect your little one's face from the sun. Rated UPF 50+, it's sure to keep your baby sun safe no matter what water activity he does.
Hot tip:We also have matchingbaby boy one-piece swimsuits that match these hats!
4. Baby Girls' Swim Hat
This sun hat for baby girls sure gets all the compliments on the beach! It's adorable and offers UPF 50+ protection, so you don't have to worry about shielding your little one's face when she's outside.
Rest easy knowing your baby is sun safe with this cute sun hat. It makes for an excellent birthday present!
Hot tip:We have matchingbaby girls' one-piece swimsuitsthat match these sun hats too!
Be sure to check out our collection of baby beachwear and swimwear online. Everything is rated UPF 50+ for best-in-class sun protection.
