Preventing and Treating Sunburns

Preventing Sunburns

Sunscreen is important when children in our area are exposed to the sun for extended periods of time - a day in the park, a day at the beach, etc. In and out exposures in our region do not require sunscreen. Babies should be protected from the sun.

For children 6 months or older, apply sunscreen at least 30 minutes before going outside, with an SPF of at least 15. (We prefer 30.) Sunscreen must be absorbed into the skin to be most effective. It will not work as well if you wait to apply it when you get to the pool or beach. In order to not miss spots, we recommend applying sunscreen while your child is naked. Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours or after swimming or sweating.

Modern sunscreens should be waterproof. Sunscreens for children are often better made and more reliably waterproof. Major brands are better than off-brands. The sunscreen should have UV-A and UV-B protection. This protects against the suns rays that burn and the rays that cause premature aging and skin cancer.

Consumer Reports often rates the sunscreens and is a good resource for a comparison of the various sunscreens.

Treating Sunburns

OK, you didn't use sunscreen. Now what.

The sensation of pain and heat will probably last for 48 hours. Treat pain early (within 6 hours of sun exposure) with acetaminophen or ibuprofen, and repeat as necessary for the first two days.

Cool baths or compresses several times daily may be comforting. Showers may be painful because of the force of the spray. Avoid all soaps on sunburned skin.

If the sunscreen is moderate, please call the office for instructions.

Peeling will occur on the fifth to the seventh day. This does not require any specific treatment.