Sunburn

Sunburn is inflammation of the skin caused by excessive exposure to sunlight. The best cure is prevention and you'll need to be strict with children who may not appreciate the dangers and the potential for long-term damage.

Most children's skin is very sensitive to sunlight - more sensitive than adults' - so be careful about exposing their skin to the sun at any time.

What to do

Preventing sunburn is a lot better than treating it. Protect the exposed parts of the skin with a generous application of sunscreen cream of at least factor 30 about 20 minutes before going out. Repeat at least every two or three hours and every time your child has been in the water.

Always cover your baby's head with a wide-brimmed hat and dress him in loose light clothing that covers the shoulders and neck, such as a shirt with sleeves and a collar. Make sure the pram or buggy has an adjustable hood or sunshade with which to shade your baby. If the sun is extremely strong it is better to keep your child indoors, especially between 11am and 3pm when the sun is at its highest. Remember that your baby is still at risk of ultraviolet rays even on cloudy days in summer.

If by chance your baby does get sunburned, calamine lotion is a good cooling application, and children's paracetamol will do a lot to relieve the soreness in the skin and bring his temperature down. If your baby is restless and ill, take his temperature; if it is raised this may herald heatstroke and you should seek medical advice immediately.

Dr Miriam Stoppard

New Babycare
Copyright © 2009 Dorling Kindersley
Text copyright © 2009 Miriam Stoppard

Posted 03.11.2010

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