Sun Exposure In Infancy Can Increase Skin Cancer Risk Later In Life

Sun damage to the skin begins earlier than many parents realise, often in the first years of life. Because a baby’s skin is thinner and more sensitive than an adult’s, exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation during infancy and early childhood can cause damage that builds up over time, increasing the risk of skin cancer later in life.

This risk is heightened in South Africa, where sun exposure is particularly intense. Much of the country lies at a high altitude, is closer to the equator, and experiences many clear, cloud-free days throughout the year. During summer, UV radiation is even stronger, as the southern hemisphere is angled closer to the sun.

According to the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA), babies and young children are particularly vulnerable to the sun as their skin contains lower levels of melanin, the pigment that helps protect against UV rays. Even brief periods of unprotected sun exposure can result in sunburn and long-term cellular damage, which may not become visible until years or decades later.

With South Africans experiencing the peak of summer, continued education about skin cancer risks, while reinforcing the importance of sun protection and preventative behaviour is important says Lizeth Kruger, Clinic Executive at Dis-Chem Baby City.

“Early protection plays a critical role in long-term skin health and we encourage parents to limit babies’ exposure to direct sunlight, especially during peak UV hours between 10am and 4pm. Keeping infants in shaded areas and avoiding prolonged outdoor exposure during these times are considered essential preventative measures.

“Sun damage is cumulative, and the exposure children experience in their early years has a lasting impact,” says Kruger. “By protecting babies from the sun from the very beginning, parents are taking a simple but important step in reducing the risk of skin cancer later in life,” says Kruger.

She said protective clothing remains one of the most effective ways to shield delicate skin from harmful rays. Lightweight long-sleeved clothing, wide-brimmed hats and UV-protective accessories help reduce direct exposure. Where skin remains exposed, the use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen formulated for babies is recommended, applied according to product instructions.

Additionally, Kruger encourages planning outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon when UV levels are lower. Sunglasses with UV protection, lightweight blankets for strollers and monitoring daily UV indexes can help parents make safer choices and reduce cumulative sun exposure for their children.

Establishing sun-safe habits early in life is key, as UV damage is cumulative. Repeated exposure in childhood significantly increases the likelihood of skin damage later on, making prevention far more effective than treatment.

“By prioritising sun protection from infancy, parents can play a critical role in reducing preventable skin damage and supporting long-term skin health,” concludes Kruger.

Mzansi Pulse

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Sun exposure in infancy can increase skin cancer risk later in life

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