Summer as a parent in Malta, how can I protect my baby’s skin?

The summer days have now begun, and long days in the sun become more frequent, with beach trips, BBQs, and other outdoor activities taking place on a regular basis. We are all familiar with Malta’s harsh summers, from the scorching sun to our winged friends to wreak their bloody habit again, which is why it is incredibly important to ensure that your baby’s skin is protected.

Here are some tips on how to keep on top of your baby’s needs this summer.

1) Protect baby’s face

Applying sunscreen is essential, especially to areas that are more exposed such as baby’s face and shoulders. Also, make sure you cover every exposed area, including often forgotten parts like the ears and neck.Look for sunscreen with an SPF of 50+ which is free from parabens, and fragrances.

2) Protect from mosquito bites

With babies’ skin being so sensitive, a simple mosquito bite can easily cause unwanted irritation. Preventing bites is possible by using creams and sprays that are suited for this purpose. Chicco also offers ultrasound devices which come in both ‘plug-in’ format for indoor use and and portable formats which can be attached to prams, or even on your t-shirt.

3) Post-bite care

If your baby does get bitten, an after-bite pen is a must have as it is perfect for mosquito bites, jellyfish stings, and wasp stings. Anti-mosquito range is perfect for the whole family.

4) When to apply sunscreen?

It is recommended to apply 20 minutes before heading outside, and don’t forget to re-apply every two to three hours to maintain the coverage, as well as re-applying after a dip in the water. It is ideal to look for sun sprays that are water resistant such as the Chicco sun spray, since this ensures that your child’s skin is protected even whilst in the water.

5) Avoid peak hours

Avoiding the peak hours when the sun is at its strongest, between noon and 4pm, will ensure that your baby is not battling against the fierce rays of summer.

6) Use protective gear

UV-protective swimwear helps protect your baby when in the water, as the sun can still penetrate through the sea. If your baby keeps it on, a hat also helps protect baby’s face. Sunscreen should still be applied under protective gear.

7) Seek the shade

Sunscreen should still be applied even when sitting in the shade however the shade does help in protecting your baby’s skin. A simple action such as packing an umbrella can avoid any potential sun damage.

8) Hydration

Adequate hydration is important when spending long hours in the sun, so it’s a good idea to keep a cool bottle of water on you wherever you go and ensure that your baby is drinking the necessary amount. For babies between 1 and 3 years, 1.3 litres is the recommended daily amount.

About Chicco Sun-Care range:

Chicco’s range of sun products are specifically designed for sensitive skin and are:

• Hypo-allergenic.

• Offer UVA and UVB protection.

• Paraben-free.

• Water-resistant – perfect for beach days.

• Alcohol, fragrance and colourant free.

• Micro-biologically and dermatologically tested.

Sun-Care Products:

Sun Spray SPF 50+ (Suitable for babies 12 months and over)

Sun Cream SPF 50+ (Suitable from birth) Protects against UVA, UVB and the effects of infrared rays

After-sun milk (Suitable from birth)

About Chicco Anti-Mosquito range:

All products in the Chicco anti-mosquito range:

• Are dermatologically tested on sensitive skin and are suitable for new-borns, pregnant women and adults

• Are available in various practical formats

• Refresh, moisturise and naturally protect babies’ skin without using chemical repellents thanks to Crabwood and Melissa oils, which are well-known as natural repellents.

• Offer day and night protection against the most common types of mosquitos, including the Asian Tiger mosquito.

• Offer long lasting protection – A single application will protect the baby’s skin for up to 3 hours.

• Are perfect for the whole family.

Anti-Mosquito Products:

Anti-Mosquito Ultrasound Plug-in or Portable Device. The ultrasound devices use ultrasound technology which annoys mosquitos but do not have any side effects on people. These devices are environmentally friendly and do not release chemicals so you don’t need to air rooms after use.

Chicco Anti-Mosquito Spray (100 ml) or roll on (60ml)

Natural after-bite roll-on – effective on mosquito bites as well as jellyfish and wasp stings. Click here for offer.