Summer brings a lot of outdoor fun for families. You already know the importance of sunscreen in order to protect Baby’s skin from the sun’s harmful rays, but you need to protect his eyes, too.
Childsafetyexperts.com says that’s because “the cornea, lens and fluids in children’s eyes are much clearer than in adult eyes, shortwave light — such as harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays– can more easily reach and damage the retina.”
He may not be directly looking at the sun, but those damaging UV rays can bounce off of sand, water, snow and even concrete. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) says those areas can reflect up to 85 percent of the sunlight, which intensifies exposure. Protect his eyes from above with the use of wide-brimmed hats that shade his cheeks, chin, ears and back of his neck. Protect his eyes from bouncing sun rays with baby sunglasses.
“Sunglasses with UV protection are also a good idea for protecting your child’s eyes,” says the AAP. “They protect against sun glare and harmful radiation.”
You don’t go above and beyond to protect Baby’s eyes. Expensive sunglasses do not necessarily provide better protection. Find sunglasses that meet the standards and you’ll be good to go. According to childsafetyexperts.com, glasses should meet ANSI (American National Standards Institute) requirements, and the labels should clearly state that they block UV absorption up to 400 nm (nanometers), or 99 – 100 percent of both UVA and UVB rays.
Baby Sunglasses We Love
Sky Blue with Blue Revo
cocosand.com | $19.99
Mirror lenses block 100 percent of UVA and UVB rays and are shatter resistant. Fitted with a neoprene adjustable strap, these glasses are perfect for babies up to age 1.
Sublime Lime Navigator
(featured at top of page in Think Pink)
babiators.com | $20
Your little one ages 0 – 2 will be styling and protecting his little eyes with these cute baby sunglasses. They use UV400 lenses for 100 percent protection from UVA and UVB rays. The flexible rubber frames make for a comfortable fit and won’t break as he twists, bends or steps on them.
Kelly Kapowski Pink Baby Shades
roshambobaby.com | $20
Baby shades with polarized, shatter-resistant lenses provide 100 percent UVA, UVB and UVC protection for Baby. The durable, flexible and ultra light frames are great for little faces ages 0 – 24 months.
Baby Hats to Adore
Out of the Sun Hat
hannaandersson.com | $7.99
This fast-drying protective hat is great for babies as it provides protection from UVA and UVB rays. The stretchy back panel gives it a snug fit and features a neck flap and big front brim. Available in a variety of bold colors in sizes XXS – L.
Lorikeet Infant Sun Protection Hat
wallaroohats.com | $21
With UPF 50+ fabric to block the harmful rays of the sun, it’s easy to keep Baby cool. It features a Velcro chin strap to keep the comfy, two-inch brim hat in place. Fits babies ages 3 – 12 months.
