After-sun: Is it also for babies?

The skin of babies, and children in general, is very delicate. Indeed, the skin barrier develops gradually over the first few years of life, and its thinness in infants makes them particularly vulnerable to allergens, bacteria, and also to sunlight. UV rays can easily penetrate deeply into children's skin, reaching the dermal papillae and capillaries where they cause photodamage, sometimes permanent. Furthermore, melanogenesis, whose main purpose is to protect DNA and cellular components from UV rays, only fully develops by the age of three. Studies have also established a strong correlation between sun exposure in young children and the development of melanoma later in life.

More fragile than adults, it is absolutely necessary to avoid directly exposing babies to the sun.

Nevertheless, it is of course still possible to take a baby for a walk outside, provided certain precautions are observed. Regarding the application of an after-sun product following the walk, it is strongly recommended. As a reminder, after-sun products are rich formulations designed to replenish lipids and soothe skin that has been sensitised by sun exposure. They often contain nourishing, hydrating, healing, and anti-inflammatory ingredients. After-sun products differ from regular moisturisers due to their high content of soothing and healing actives, making them more suitable for combating the skin dryness caused by sun exposure.

To avoid sensitising the delicate skin of babies, it is generally recommended to minimise the number of cosmetics used and to opt for products with the simplest possible formulation. Therefore, if the moisturising lotion you usually apply to the skin is sufficiently rich, you can very well use it as an after-sun lotion too. Conversely, if its texture is not nourishing enough and it does not contain soothing or healing ingredients, it might be worthwhile to invest in an after-sun lotion suited to the vulnerable skin of babies. For this, we advise avoiding products containing colourants, fragrances, alcohol derivatives, or foaming agents as they often prove to be irritating and can cause redness, itching, and dryness, far from the desired effect.

Regardless of your choice, it is important to hydrate and nourish children's skin after a day spent outdoors.