Green Treehouse

A stranger approached me the other day to tell me that my baby looked tan. As if I didn’t already have enough mom guilt (for other reasons, like taking time to use the bathroom by myself from time to time) to keep me going for the rest of my life…. Tan? I don’t think I could lather on any more sunscreen on this baby. I swear she tans through SPF 50.

Speaking of sunblock, if you didn’t already know, in the United States skin cancer is the most common form of cancer. According to Healthy Child Healthy World, when you’re looking to protect your child (and yourself) against UVA and UVB rays, look for products that are “full spectrum”–meaning they include ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide that form a barrier on your skin. Also, look for a high SPF, ideally at least 15. And, when it comes to babies and children, look for paraben-free products. Parabens are potentially nasty forms of preservatives with suspected links to cancer.

Of course, don’t forget the baby cabana, too. And be sure to take a picture of baby in it, so you can whip it out the next time someone comments on your baby’s skin shade.

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