A bunch of us here at Sun Bum HQ are new parents, so we know how much you probably fuss over your little one's skin. We wanna keep ‘em happy, right? So there’s nothing worse than ending a day of play with a sunburn. Ouch. If you’re wondering how to treat baby sunburn, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Babies have sensitive skin, and it’s super important to soothe that burn ASAP.
What Is Baby Sunburn?
Baby sunburn happens when your baby’s delicate skin is exposed to too much UV radiation from the sun. Since their skin is thinner and more sensitive than adults, it can burn faster and more intensely. Even a short time in the sun without protection can lead to redness, discomfort, and in more severe cases, blistering or swelling. Sunburns on babies can be tricky, so it’s important to act fast when you notice those telltale signs of too much sun.
What To Do For Baby Sunburn
First off, don’t panic. If your baby gets a sunburn, move them to a shaded or indoor area immediately. Keep them cool, and offer lots of fluids to prevent dehydration. Gently apply cool compresses to the affected areas for relief. You’ll want to calm the burn as quickly as possible while keeping their skin moisturized to aid in the healing process. Always keep an eye on their comfort, and if things seem severe, don’t hesitate to contact your pediatrician.
What To Put On Baby Sunburn
For mild sunburns, moisturizing lotions like aloe vera or unscented baby lotion can help soothe their sensitive skin. Some people even swear by natural remedies like breast milk for healing sunburns—according to ABC News, breast milk has anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe skin and speed up healing. Cool, right?
How To Make Them Comfortable
An uncomfortable baby makes an uncomfortable family! Little guys don’t know how to handle discomfort, so it’s up to you to help them stay cool and comfy. Dress them in loose, soft clothing that won’t irritate their skin. Keep the room cool, and let them rest as much as they need. If they seem fussy or irritable, a little extra cuddle time can go a long way!
What To Avoid
Avoid harsh creams, scented lotions, and anything with alcohol that could dry out your baby’s skin even more. Also, steer clear of scrubbing the sunburned area or using ice directly on their skin—it could make things worse. When in doubt, stick to gentle, natural solutions and lots of love.
When Is A Baby Sunburn An Emergency?
Sometimes, baby sunburn can go from mild to serious pretty quickly. If your baby’s sunburn causes blisters, fever, chills or signs of dehydration (you want to make sure they’re still wetting diapers like normal), it’s time to call the doctor. Severe sunburns in infants can lead to more serious complications, so don’t wait it out if you’re concerned. Always trust your instincts when it comes to your baby’s health!
Preventing Baby Sunburn
Luckily there’s lots of ways to avoid dealing with sunburn altogether. Here’s how you can protect your baby’s delicate skin.
Stay In The Shade
Easy, right? Stay out of the direct sun. When you’re out with your baby, try to keep them in shaded areas, especially between 10 AM and 4 PM, when the sun is at its strongest. Pop up an umbrella or use a stroller with a sunshade when necessary.
Use Sunscreen On Babies 6 Months Of Age And Older
For babies over 6 months old, sunscreen is a must. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and apply it generously to any exposed skin. According to The Skin Cancer Foundation, babies under 6 months shouldn’t use sunscreen, so it’s better to rely on other forms of sun protection for them.
Use UV Protection
Make sure your baby’s eyes and head are protected by using UV-blocking hats and sunglasses. Not only do they look super cute, but they also add an extra layer of protection from harmful rays. Lightweight fabrics with UV protection can also make a big difference.
Consider Lightweight Clothing
Dress your baby in lightweight, long-sleeve clothing when you’re heading outdoors. Light, breathable fabrics like cotton will help cover up their skin without making them too hot. Bonus points if the clothing has built-in UV protection. We always love a baby-sized rash guard around here.