Sunburn in Children: Care Instructions

Overview

A sunburn is skin damage from the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays. Most sunburns cause mild pain and redness but affect only the outer layer of skin. These are called first-degree burns. The red skin might hurt when you touch it. These sunburns are mild and can usually be treated at home.

Skin that is red and painful and that swells up and blisters may mean that deep skin layers and nerve endings have been damaged. These are second-degree burns. This type of sunburn is usually more painful and takes longer to heal.

Follow-up care is a key part of your child's treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and contact your doctor if your child is having problems. It's also a good idea to know your child's test results and keep a list of the medicines your child takes.

How can you care for your child at home?

• Use cool cloths on sunburned areas.
• Take frequent cool showers or baths.
• Apply lotions. Lotions that contain aloe vera may feel soothing to sunburned areas. There's not much you can do to stop skin from peeling after a sunburn. It's part of the healing process. Lotion may help relieve the itching. You can also try an oatmeal bath product (such as Aveeno) or apply calamine lotion for itching.
• Rest and drink fluids for a headache. A sunburn can cause a mild fever and a headache. Lie down in a cool, quiet room to relieve the headache. A headache may be caused by dehydration, so drinking fluids may help.
• Watch for blisters and symptoms of a skin infection. A small, unbroken blister will usually heal on its own. Use a loose bandage to protect it. If a blister opens, gently wash the area with clean water. You may cover the blister with a thin layer of petroleum jelly and a nonstick bandage.
• Try over-the-counter medicine, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) for pain, swelling, and fever. Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
• Protect your skin by using sunscreen, hats, and loose-fitting, tightly-woven clothes.

When should you call for help?

Contact your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

• Your child has symptoms of dehydration, such as:
  • Dry eyes and a dry mouth.
  • Passing only a little urine.
  • Feeling thirstier than usual.
• Your child has symptoms of infection, such as:
  • Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness.
  • Red streaks leading from the area.
  • Pus draining from the area.
  • A fever.

Watch closely for changes in your child's health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

• Your child does not get better as expected.