What every parent should know about sunburn

Suburn is painful, and can have serious consequences. When we're out and about all day in the summer, especially on holiday, it is something to be taken very seriously. What are the symptoms of sunburn, how do we prevent young children from getting burnt in the sun, and what can we do to treat it if it is already too late for prevention?

Sunburn prevention

The most sure-fire way to prevent your baby from getting sunburnt is to keep them out of the sun, at least during the hot hours between 11 and 5 o'clock. When you are out and about, getting through those hot days without sunburn is easier if you cover your kids up. On the beach, this can be achieved with a rashguard swimming costume. If your kids have especially fair skin, long-sleeved white t-shirts are a good idea. And when there is exposed skin, don't forget about sun screen. The higher the sun protection factor (SPF), the better the protection. And keep on applying it throughout the day.

Sunburn symptoms

Red skin, mild at first and very noticeable later Swelling Pain Skin feels hot to the touch Blisters (in severe cases) Fever (in severe cases) Chills

Treating sunburn

Cool baths, applying a topical pain reliever, putting cucumbers, chamomile tea, or aloe vera on the skin, are all good remedies for sunburn and the discomfort that accompanies it. If your baby has blisters, a fever, or severe pain, do be sure to head to the doctor. If your child vomits or is dizzy, this is also a sign of severe sunburn that requires medical treatment. And remember to keep your child out of the sun until the sunburn has completely healed. When in doubt, consult a doctor.

My then four year old daughter got sunburn last year. It was extremely unpleasant, and it gave her pain for about a week. Needless to say, I now know to stay out of the sun and watch for early signs of sunburn all the time when we do go the beach. Also look at our beach tips for parents with small children.