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 and reach the dermal papillae and capillaries, where they cause photodamage, sometimes permanent. Additionally, melanogenesis, whose main purpose is to protect DNA and cellular components from UV rays, does not fully develop until 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 the baby for a walk outside, provided certain precautions are observed. Regarding the application of an after-sun product after 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 sensitized by sun exposure. They often contain nourishing, hydrating, healing, and anti-inflammatory ingredients. After-sun products differ from regular moisturizers due to their high content of soothing and healing agents, making them more suitable for combating the skin dryness caused by sun exposure.

To avoid sensitizing the delicate skin of babies, it is generally recommended to minimize the number of cosmetics used and to opt for products with the simplest possible formulation. Thus, if the moisturizing lotion you usually apply to the skin is sufficiently rich, you can also use it as an after-sun lotion. Conversely, if its texture is not nourishing enough and it does not contain soothing or healing ingredients, it may be worthwhile to invest in an after-sun lotion suited for the vulnerable skin of babies. For this, we advise avoiding products containing colorants, 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.

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