Sunburn
Two or more blistering sunburns as a child or teen can increase the risk of developing skin cancer later in life. Since
people get the most sun exposure before age 18, it is very important to protect babies and children from sunburn.
A baby's sensitive skin is thinner and burns more easily than adult skin
(fig.1).
Even babies with skin that is naturally darker need sun protection.- Always put sunscreen on your child: The sun protection factor (SPF) should be at least 15. Choose a waterproof or water-resistant sunscreen and look for the words "broad spectrum" on the label. This means that the sunscreen blocks both ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays.
- Apply sunscreen generously and rub it in well, covering all exposed areas, especially face, nose, ears, feet, hands, and the backs of knees. Avoid getting sunscreen in or near the eyes. It is best to apply sunscreen 30 minutes before sun exposure.
- A sunblock such as zinc oxide provides extra protection on the nose, cheeks, ears, and tops of shoulders.
- Babies under 6 months of age should be kept out of the direct sunlight.
- Dress your child in tightly woven fabrics that cover the body, such as comfortable lightweight long pants, long-sleeved shirts, and hats with brims that shade the face and cover the ears.
- Child-sized sunglasses with UV protection are also a good idea for protecting your child's eyes. Your child’s vision can worsen after years of continued sun exposure. Start protecting your child early.
- The sun's rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Try to keep your child out of the sun during these hours.
- Protect your child from the sun even on cloudy days. The sun’s rays can penetrate the clouds.
If your child gets a sunburn:
- If a baby gets a sunburn and is less than one year old, contact your pediatrician at once, a severe sunburn may be an emergency. For babies over the age of 1, consult your pediatrician if there is blistering, pain, or fever.
- Give your child plenty of juice or water to replace lost fluids.
- Do not use any medicated lotions on a baby's skin unless recommended by your pediatrician.
- Keep your child out of the sun completely until the sunburn is totally healed.