Pedemy All toolsTap your child’s age, then sun, bugs or both. You’ll see what is safe to use and how to use it.
This tool explains how to protect babies and children from the sun and from insect bites, by age, following AAP guidance.
Babies younger than 6 months should be kept out of direct sunlight; a small amount of sunscreen on small areas like the face is OK if shade and clothing aren’t possible. Older children should use broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 15 to 50, applied 15 to 30 minutes before going out and reapplied every 2 hours and after swimming.
For bug spray, DEET 10% protects for about 2 hours and 30% for about 5 hours, and picaridin 5% for 3 to 4 hours. Do not use oil of lemon eucalyptus or PMD on children younger than 3 years. An adult should apply repellent, avoiding the face, eyes, mouth and hands.
Keep babies under 6 months out of direct sunlight. If shade and protective clothing aren’t available, you can use sunscreen on small areas such as the face.
Use the lowest strength for the time outside: 10% DEET protects for about 2 hours and 30% for about 5 hours. More than 50% gives no extra protection. Apply sparingly on children under 2.
Do not use products with oil of lemon eucalyptus or PMD on children younger than 3 years old.
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