It’s a beautiful sunny day at the beach, and your child is having the time of their life playing in the sand and water. However, as the day goes on, you realize that your child is starting to look a bit pink.
Before you know it, they come to you in tears, complaining of pain and discomfort. Your child has been singed by the sun, and you need to act fast to help them feel better.
What is Sunburn?
Sunburn is a type of skin damage that is caused by overexposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. The skin becomes red, painful, and may even blister or peel.
Sunburn can happen to anyone, but children are especially vulnerable, as their skin is more sensitive than adults and they tend to spend more time outdoors. Sunburn can cause long-term damage to the skin, increasing the risk of skin cancer later on in life.
Prevention is Key
The best way to deal with sunburn is to prevent it from happening in the first place. Here are some tips for keeping your child safe in the sun:.
- Stay in the shade as much as possible, especially during the hottest hours of the day (between 10 am and 4 pm).
- Wear a hat and protective clothing that covers as much skin as possible.
- Apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to all exposed skin, and reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating.
- Keep babies under six months old out of direct sunlight entirely.
Home Remedies for Sunburn
If your child does get sunburned, there are some things you can do to help ease their discomfort:.
- Get out of the sun and into a cool, shady place.
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
- Apply cool compresses to the affected area.
- Take a cool bath or shower.
- Apply aloe vera or a soothing lotion to the skin.
When to Seek Medical Attention
In most cases, sunburn can be treated at home with the remedies above. However, if your child experiences any of the following symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention:.
- Severe pain or discomfort.
- Blisters covering a large area of the body.
- Fever, chills, or vomiting.
- Dizziness or confusion.
If your child has been singed by the sun, it’s important to take action quickly. Prevention is the best form of protection, so be sure to follow the tips above to keep your child safe in the sun.