Managing sunburn

Did you know?

If a person has had five or more sunburns or one blistering sunburn during childhood or adolescence, their risk of developing melanoma doubles.

Try to prevent sunburn by following the slip, slop, sap, seek and slide messaging. However, when a child spends too long out in the sun without sun protection, they are likely to get sunburnt.

Managing mild sunburn

If a child has a mild sunburn, it can often be managed at home through the following steps: 

  • prevent any further damage by eliminating sun exposure by moving them inside or into the shade
  • drink plenty of water so your child doesn’t become dehydrated as well as sunburnt
  • apply a cold compress or place the affected area in cool water
  • use pain relief medication if necessary by following the instructions on the label
  • do not pop blisters
  • speak with a pharmacist about appropriate moisturisers such as spray-on solutions.

If the skin starts peeling, remind your child to avoid picking at it. Allow the skin to shed naturally as it is a part of the body's healing process.

Managing severe sunburn

Signs and symptoms of severe sunburn can include:

  • blistering of the skin
  • severe pain
  • a fever 
  • cramping
  • vomiting
  • dizziness
  • headaches. 

If a child has severe sunburn that is causing them pain or to become unwell, you should call Triple Zero (000) or visit your local emergency department for further advice.