Managing sunburn
Did you know?
If a person has had 5 or more sunburns or one blistering sunburn during childhood, their risk of developing melanoma doubles.
Preventing sunburn is the best advice. However, when a child spends too long in the sun without protection, they are likely to get sunburnt.
Preventing sunburn is the best advice. However, when a child spends too long in the sun without protection, they are likely to get sunburnt.
Managing mild sunburn
If your child has a mild sunburn, it can often be managed at home by:
- moving into the shade or indoors to stop any more sun damage
- offer plenty of water to help prevent dehydration
- gently place a cool, damp cloth on the skin or run cool water over the area
- give pain relief if needed, following the instructions on the packaging
- leave any blisters alone- don’t pop them
- ask your pharmacist about soothing moisturisers or spray-on relief.
If your child’s skin peel, remind them not to pick at it- allow the skin to heal naturally.
Managing severe sunburn
Signs and symptoms of severe sunburn can include:
- blistering of the skin
- severe pain
- a fever
- cramping
- vomiting
- dizziness
- headaches.
Call Triple Zero (000) or visit your local emergency department if a child has severe sunburn causing pain or illness.