Is Any sunscreen under 6m Safe for Babies 0–12 months?
For babies 0–12 months, Any sunscreen under 6m is okay only with caution. The FDA does not recommend sunscreen for infants under 6 months and its label directions say to ask a doctor first.
Why this rating?
The FDA does not recommend sunscreen for infants under 6 months and its label directions say to ask a doctor first. The American Academy of Pediatrics advises keeping young infants out of direct sun and using shade, cool clothing and a hat first, with a small amount of sunscreen on small areas such as the face only if shade and clothing are not available. After 6 months, the AAP says sunscreen can be used on all areas of the body except the eyes. This entry applies to the first 6 months only.
Editorial summary
This summary is editorial and is not part of the reviewed rating above. Ratings are unchanged.
At 0 to 12 months
This entry applies to the first 6 months. From 6 months the AAP says sunscreen can be used on all areas of the body except the eyes, with a broad-spectrum product of SPF 15 or higher reapplied about every 2 hours and after swimming or sweating.
What the FDA says
The FDA's consumer advice is that sunscreen is not recommended for infants under 6 months, and the required label directions say to ask a doctor before using a sunscreen on a child under 6 months. The agency explains that infants are at greater risk than adults of side effects from sunscreen, such as a rash, and that the best protection for young infants is to stay out of direct sunlight.
What the American Academy of Pediatrics says
The AAP advises keeping babies under 6 months out of direct sun and using shade, such as a tree, an umbrella or a stroller canopy, together with cool clothing that covers the body. Sunscreen is a fallback: if shade and protective clothing are not available, the AAP says a small amount can be used on small areas, such as the face. The FDA also suggests a hat that shades the face, neck and ears, and keeping infants out of the sun in the middle of the day.
How this entry should be read
Our rating is Caution because the preferred approach for this age is shade and clothing, and any sunscreen decision belongs with your pediatrician. It is not a statement that a small amount used when no other protection is available is dangerous. After 6 months the AAP says sunscreen can go on all areas of the body except the eyes, and a mineral sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide is an option if a product irritates the skin.
In short
In short, the first line of protection for a young infant is shade, clothing and a brimmed hat, and a pediatrician should guide any use of sunscreen before 6 months. Whatever the age, look for a broad-spectrum product and keep it out of the eyes, and ask your pediatrician about a product if your baby has eczema or sensitive skin.
Sources
- FDA: Should You Put Sunscreen on Infants? Not Usually — regulatory_or_public_health_body
- AAP HealthyChildren: Sun Safety — regulatory_or_public_health_body
Reviewed by Morvarid Nikousokhantayar, MSc Nutrition, Certified Naturopath & Nutritionist — last reviewed September 27, 2026.
This is general feeding information, not medical advice. Talk to your pediatrician about your child's allergies and needs.
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