How to Handle Sunburn

Sunburn can happen within 15 minutes of being in the sun, but the redness and discomfort may not be noticed for a few hours. Repeated sunburns can lead to skin cancer. Unprotected sun exposure is even more dangerous for kids who have moles or freckles, very fair skin and hair, or a family history of skin cancer.

What Are the Signs & Symptoms of a Sunburn?

A mild sunburn can cause:

• skin redness and warmth
• pain
• itchiness

A severe sunburn can cause:

• skin redness and blistering
• pain and tingling
• swelling
• headache
• nausea
• fever and chills
• dizziness

What Should I Do if My Child Gets Sunburned?

• Have your child get out of the sun right away.
• Have your child take a cool (not cold) shower or bath, or apply cool compresses as often as needed.
• Give extra liquids for the next 2 to 3 days.
• Give your child ibuprofen or acetaminophen as directed, if needed, to relieve pain.
• Use moisturizing creams or aloe gel to provide comfort.
• When going outside, all sunburned areas should be fully covered to protect the skin from the sun until healed.

When Should I Get Medical Care for Sunburn?

Call your doctor or get emergency medical care if:

• a sunburn causes blisters or is extremely painful
• your child has facial swelling from a sunburn
• a sunburn covers a large area
• your child has fever or chills after getting sunburned
• your child has a headache, confusion, or a feeling of faintness
• you see signs of dehydration (increased thirst, less pee, or dry eyes and mouth)

What Can Help Prevent Sunburn?

• Avoid summer sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
• Have kids wear protective clothing, sunglasses, and a hat.
• Apply sunscreen that provides UVB and UVA protection with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30.
• Apply sunscreen 15 to 30 minutes before sun exposure and 30 minutes after exposure begins, then reapply after kids have been swimming or sweating.
• Although the best way to protect babies 6 months of age or younger is to keep them shaded, you can use small amounts of sunscreen (with an SPF of at least 30) on small exposed areas, like the face.