
Sunburn 101: Prevention & Management
Jan 21, 2025In This Article:
Intro
Did you know that 2 in 3 Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer in their lifetime? While these statistics seem grim, the good news is that most cases are preventable with reduced UV exposure1.
As parents, we have a unique opportunity to shape a healthier future for our kids. This is because childhood UV damage significantly increases the risk of developing skin cancer later in life2. By protecting our little ones now, we’re not only keeping them safe today but also setting them up with SunSmart habits they can carry through life.
"Sid the Seagull", part of the Cancer Council's SunSmart campaign.
Preventing Sunburn
Remember Sid the Seagull? That feathered legend who got us all singing about sun safety? Well, he’s had a bit of a glow-up. The classic Slip, Slop, Slap has expanded to include Seek and Slide, because, apparently, Sid discovered sunglasses and shade in his retirement 😎
Sun protection is still as crucial as ever when the UV index hits 3 or above, and if you’ve got a baby under 12 months, it’s recommended to keep them out of direct sunlight altogether.
Let’s take a trip down memory lane and revisit Sid's 5 step plan for staying sun smart.
👕 Slip
Slip on some protective clothing to cover as much skin as possible. I'm talking long-sleeved tops, rash vests, or even wetsuits for swimming. Lightweight, loose-fitting fabrics are a lifesaver for keeping kids cool while staying sun-safe. For babies, a light wrap works wonders to shield their skin without overheating.
🧴 Slop
Slop on sunscreen: SPF 50+, broad-spectrum, and water-resistant, to any skin that isn’t covered by clothing. Apply it about 20 minutes before heading out and reapply every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating.
For babies under six months, sunscreen isn’t the best option since their skin absorbs more chemicals than adults. For this reason, the Australasian College of Dermatologists do not recommend the widespread and regular use of chemical sunscreens in babies under 6 months. Instead, keep your little one out of direct sunlight as much as possible, dress them in protective clothing and hats, and if necessary, opt for a physical sunscreen (mineral based) instead of a chemical sunscreen on parts that are exposed.
👒 Slap
Slap on a hat: and make it a wide-brimmed, bucket, or legionnaire-style to cover their face, ears, and neck. Baseball caps and visors? Great for fashion statements but not so good for sun protection. For little ones, soft, comfy hats are the go, because let's be real here, if they hate it, you’re going to spend half the day trying to put it back on. And look, I can’t deny that hat struggles are real. To get my kids used to wearing hats, I’d let them put mine on first—because who doesn’t love dressing up Mum? Then, when I popped their hat on, I’d quickly distract them with something fun so they’d forget all about it. We have also been pretty firm in establishing the “no hat, no play” on our outdoor adventures. They learn the rules pretty quick!
⛱ Seek
Seek shade whenever you can: such as under a tree, an umbrella, or a shade sail.
But...shade isn’t a magic shield. UV rays bounce off sand, water, and concrete, so keep the rest of your sun protection game strong. Plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon when the UV isn’t as intense (before 10 am or after 3 pm). The SunSmart app can help you check UV levels in real-time, so you know when it’s safest to head outside. Remember, a cool or cloudy day doesn’t mean the UV levels are low...temperature and UV are two completely different things!
😎 Slide
Slide on some sunnies to protect their little eyes. Close-fitting, wrap-around styles are the best option, and make sure they meet Australian standards. For babies and toddlers, a soft elastic strap can help keep those sunnies in place.
When Sunburn Strikes
Preventing sunburn is always the goal, but sometimes, despite your best efforts, things can still go wrong (like realising your sunscreen is out of date!).
Unfortunately, children can get sunburned in as little as 10 minutes.
Signs of Sunburn
Mild Sunburn:
- Pinkness on light-coloured skin
- Hot, stinging skin
Severe Sunburn:
- Blistering
- Swelling
- Severe pain
Treating Sunburn
Most sunburns can be treated at home with a focus on keeping your child comfortable and hydrated.
1️⃣ Prevent further damage: Keep your child indoors and out of the sun.
2️⃣ Hydrate: Ensure your child drinks plenty of fluids to stay well hydrated.
3️⃣ Cool the skin: Use a cold cloth or a cool bath to soothe the burn, but make sure your child doesn’t start feeling cold in the process “cool the burn, not the child”.
4️⃣ Ease the discomfort: If needed, give paracetamol or ibuprofen to help with pain.
👩⚕️ When to See a Doctor
You should seek medical advice if your child:
🔸Has signs of severe sunburn as listed above (blistering, swelling, or severe pain).
🔸Develops symptoms of heat illness, such as:
- Headache
- High temperature
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness
🥵 Watch for Dehydration
Sunburn increases the risk of dehydration, particularly in infants, who are more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses. Monitor your child closely for any signs of dehydration. Learn more about infant dehydration [here].
❌ What Not to Do:
- Avoid ice: Never apply ice directly to the skin, as it can worsen the burn.
- Skip home remedies: Avoid using butter, toothpaste, or other DIY treatments.
- Don’t pop blisters: Blisters act as a natural barrier to infection and aid in healing, so leave them intact.
Summary
Sun safety isn’t just about avoiding sunburn today, it’s about protecting your child’s skin for years to come. By making Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek, Slide part of your routine, you’re helping to prevent painful burns and teaching lifelong habits that really matter.
Remember, sun safety isn’t about staying cooped up indoors, it’s about staying smart. With the right precautions, you and your family can enjoy the sunshine while keeping those harmful UV rays at bay.
1. The Australasian College of Dermatologists: How Do I Protect My Skin From The Sun?
2. Cancer Council: Sun Protection for Babies and Children
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