Pediatricians Answer When a Baby Can First Go into the Sea
Experts are clear - it's not just about sensitive skin, but also temperature regulation and immune system development.
Experts are clear - it's not just about sensitive skin, but also temperature regulation and immune system development.
Parents eagerly planning their first family trip to the sea often wonder when it's safe to take their baby into the water for the first time. Although there is no strict age limit, pediatricians generally agree that it's best to wait until the child is about six months old.
The reason isn't just the baby's extremely sensitive skin. In the first months of life, babies still struggle to regulate their own body temperature, are much more sensitive to solar radiation, and their immune system is still developing. Because of all this, most experts advise that babies under six months should not bathe in the sea at all, as reported by Index.hr.
If the baby is healthy and six months or older, they can go into the sea briefly, but with strict adherence to several conditions. The sea temperature should be at least 23 to 24 degrees Celsius, and the first swim should not last longer than five to ten minutes. After that, the time spent in the water can be gradually extended, depending on the child's reaction.
Parents should carefully monitor the baby's behavior. If you notice that the baby is cold, shivering, or upset, it's best to get out of the sea immediately.
Regardless of age, babies should never be exposed to strong sunlight. Bathing is best planned early in the morning or in the late afternoon, while spending time on the beach between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. is generally not recommended. The child should definitely wear a wide-brimmed hat and UV-protective clothing, and spend as much time as possible in natural shade or under an umbrella.
As soon as you get out of the water, it's good to rinse the baby with fresh water to remove salt and sand that can irritate sensitive skin. Then gently dry the baby and change them into dry clothes or put on a dry diaper.
If the baby has eczema, extremely sensitive skin, was born prematurely, or has a chronic illness, be sure to consult a pediatrician before the first swim in the sea.
Most pediatricians advise that babies under six months should not bathe in the sea. At that age, they are still unable to maintain a stable body temperature, and sensitivity to the sun and external stimuli is extremely high. Patience truly pays off, when the child is a bit older, the first encounter with the sea will be more pleasant for both the child and the parents.
