Summertime and warmer weather means fun outside in the sun. But enjoying, playing or relaxing in the sun also comes with the need to protect your family. Here’s what you need to know to avoid sunburn this summer.
How do sunburns happen?
A child can get sunburn from spending too much time in the sun. Sunburn is not from the heat of the sun, but from prolonged exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. These rays can damage the skin, causing it to turn red, warm, inflamed, blistered, peeled or itchy. Even on a cloudy day, UV rays can pass through the clouds and cause sunburn. Sunlight can also reflect off surfaces like water or snow, which may cause sunburn from the reflection of the sun’s rays.
While anyone can get a sunburn, younger children and older adults are at greater risk because of thinner skin. UV rays penetrate thin skin more easily.
It’s also important to remember that UV radiation exposure increases the risk of skin cancer. So, be mindful of tanning beds and other artificial sources that may increase your family’s exposure.
How can I protect my family from sunburn?
- Take breaks from the sun, especially when you start to “feel the heat.” The sun is strongest between 10 am and 4 pm. Find a shady spot for your family outdoors or go inside and cool off to avoid sunburn or even heat stroke.
- Use sunscreen throughout the day. Sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30 or higher offers the best protection. It should also be reapplied throughout the day.
- Wear sunglasses. Even on a cloudy day, sunglasses can protect eyes from harsh sunlight.
- Wear hats and clothes to block the sun. Hats and sun protective clothing with an Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) of 50 or higher can help block the sun’s UV rays from reaching the skin.
Treating sunburns
- Step away from the sun. The direct cause of sunburn is UV rays. Avoid overexposure to the sun by wearing protective clothing, finding shade outdoors, or going inside when the sunlight is too intense.
- Focus on cooling the skin. Apply a lukewarm or cool towel to the burned area for about 10 to 15 minutes to soothe the skin.
- Moisturize the skin. Apply aloe vera or moisturizer to reduce any skin discomfort.
- Hydrate. Burns take away moisture from the skin. Drink plenty of water to rehydrate after sunburn.
- Comfort. Over the counter pain medication may also be helpful in treating discomfort. Always remember to consult your child’s pediatrician or family medicine doctor for guidance on pain medications.
When does sunburn become serious and what to do?
If you or your child has a large “sunburn bubble” (fluid filled blister) or widespread blisters; a draining blister with worsening pain; or fever, confusion, nausea or vomiting; seek medical care.
There are many options for your family. Talk to your child’s pediatrician or family medicine doctor, visit an urgent care or pop in to one of Riley Children’s pediatric emergency care locations for medical care.
The information in this blog was medically reviewed by the Burn Program at Riley Children’s Health. Indiana’s only American Burn Association (ABA)-verified burn center dedicated to serving children.
Related Stories
