Top Testers' Clinic with Dr Philippa Kaye: summer holidays special
MadeForMums' resident GP, Dr Philippa Kaye, answers all your burning parenting questions, from medical worries to behavioural concerns and everything in between. Here she gives expert advice to parents worried about a sun cream irritation and discusses whether or not to use insect repellants on young children.
Heading off on a summer holiday with the kids? In the middle of the marathon packing session, you might want to take a moment to consider how to protect your little ones from holiday nasties like sunburn and insect bites.
Mums from our Top Testers' Club who are also flying off to sunnier climes this month have sent us their top holiday worries and we've consulted our resident NHS GP Dr Philippa Kaye for her advice to help you have a relaxing and stress-free trip. Bon voyage!
Sun cream sensitivity
Q: "Sometimes my little girl reacts to her sun cream and other times not. I'm just wondering if you have any recommendations about what to use instead? She's 23 months for context and loves to be outside." Dawn Cunningham
A: "It can be difficult to know exactly what she is reacting to, for example, a rash that appears when it gets hot could be a reaction to a cream or it could be prickly heat! So the first thing I would recommend would be to see your doctor. Perhaps take photos of the rash if it appears to help them in case it has gone down by the time you get an appointment. If you feel that it is related to a particular cream then stop using it.
"I would recommend using a high factor SPF with a high star rating, to protect against both UVA and UVB rays, but to avoid anything fragranced or with other irritants. Looking for something that says ‘hypoallergenic’ can be helpful. Keep trying as sun protection is vital for your daughter’s health." Dr Philippa Kaye
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Is DEET dangerous?
Q: "Is it safe to use insect repellents with DEET in them on young children when you’re on holiday in a hot country?" Holly Whaley
A: "It depends on how old your child is, but in general insect repellents can be used. Insect repellents don’t just protect you against the irritation of an insect bite but depending on where you are can help protect against the diseases which can be transmitted by bites such as malaria.
"DEET is a common ingredient in insect repellent and repellents containing up to 50% DEET are safe for babies over 2 months old as well as for pregnant or breastfeeding people. Apply the insect repellent as per the instructions on the label and make sure that you are careful to cover all the skin – in the daytime apply after sunscreen. You will need to reapply regularly, especially after swimming or sweating. Don’t forget to also use simple barriers to protect against bites such as long sleeves, trousers, socks and bed nets if needed." Dr Philippa Kaye
Read more: 8 of the best insect repellents for kids recommended by parents
Please note: this advice is not personalised or meant to replace individual advice given to you about your child by your doctor or medical team. As always, if you are concerned about your child’s health then please seek medical advice.
About Dr Philippa Kaye
Dr Philippa Kaye works as a GP in both NHS and private practice. She attended Downing College, Cambridge, then took medical studies at Guy’s, King’s and St Thomas’s medical schools in London, training in paediatrics, gynaecology, care of the elderly, acute medicine, psychiatry and general practice. Dr Philippa has also written a number of books, including ones on child health, diabetes in childhood and adolescence. She is a mum of 3.
Pics: Getty
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