What To Do If Your Child Gets Sunburnt: A Parent’s Guide
Noticed your child’s skin looks red or sore after time outdoors? Our Clinic Manager, Kimberley, shares what to do next, how to keep them comfortable and when to seek medical advice.
You may start to notice the redness rise on their arm after a long day outside or on their face as they just come out of the pool. Their skin feels warm, they seem uncomfortable, and your mind immediately jumps to the worst-case scenario. First, take a breath. Move your child somewhere cool and out of direct sunlight, then focus on keeping them comfortable and watching for any signs that they may need medical advice.
Here, Kimberley, Face the Future Clinic Manager, explains what to do next, how to care for their skin and when a sunburn could be more serious...
What To Do If Your Child Gets Sunburnt
Kimberley's clear steps are...
- “If a child develops sunburn, the first priority is to move them out of the sun immediately and keep them cool.
- Cool, not ice-cold, compresses or a cool bath can help reduce discomfort.
- Followed by applying a gentle, fragrance-free moisturiser or after-sun product to support hydration.
- Encourage your child to drink plenty of fluids, as sunburn can contribute to dehydration.
- Loose, lightweight clothing can also help minimise irritation while their skin recovers."
How To Tell If A Sunburn Is Serious
Red or uncomfortable skin can be upsetting to see, but look at both the extent of the burn and how your child is feeling.
“If the sunburn is severe, covers a large area, causes blistering, or your child develops symptoms such as fever, drowsiness or vomiting, it’s important to seek medical advice promptly," Kimberley explains.
These are the warning signs to keep in mind while you monitor them. If the burn blisters, affects a large area or your child develops any of the symptoms Kimberley describes, seek medical advice by getting in touch with a doctor.
What To Do If My 2 Year Old Gets A Sunburn?
If your two-year-old gets sunburnt, begin with the same immediate care: take them out of the sun, cool the affected skin gently and keep offering fluids.
A two-year-old may not be able to explain exactly how they feel, so stay alert to Kimberley’s warning signs, including fever and vomiting. Use only gentle skincare that is clearly suitable for their age and avoid layering several products onto already uncomfortable skin.
Are Sunburns Bad For Toddlers?
Sunburn should be taken seriously in toddlers, but this is not the time to blame yourself or replay every moment of the day. Focus on what your child needs now: cooling, hydration, comfortable clothing and close attention to how they are feeling.
Keep them out of direct sunlight while their skin recovers. If the burn is severe, covers a large area, blisters or is accompanied by illness, follow Kimberley’s advice and seek medical support promptly.
Where To Buy Child-Friendly Sunburn Soothing Gels Online In The UK
When choosing a soothing gel or after-sun product for a child, look for a gentle formula and check the age guidance carefully. Follow the individual product directions and avoid assuming that every after-sun product will be suitable for a toddler.
Sebamed Baby Body Lotion
Made for delicate baby's skin, this lotion will help soothe and lock in moisture in your little one's skin. It's lightweight and non-greasy, making application easier for you and more comfortable for them, too!
Eucerin AtoControl Rich Calming Lotion
Suitable for children and babies, this will help ease sunburnt skin and repair your child's skin barrier.
Helping To Prevent Sunburn Next Time
Once the immediate worry has passed, a few practical steps can help make future days outside feel more manageable.
“Prevention is always best. Children should wear broad-spectrum SPF 50, protective clothing, hats and sunglasses, and spend time in the shade during the strongest hours of sunlight.”
Discovering sunburn on your child can feel frightening. For now, keep them cool, comfortable and hydrated. Watch how they are feeling as closely as you watch their skin, and seek medical advice promptly if any of Kimberley’s warning signs appear.
You can explore child-friendly sun care and soothing after-sun products online at Face the Future. Our expert team can also help you choose an appropriate option if you are unsure where to begin. Give us a call and we'd be happy to help.
