Sunburn and Windburn

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The sun and wind can wreak havoc on a person's skin, especially the tender skin of a young child. This is a situation where "an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure." Preventing sun and wind damage is key to preventing different forms of skin cancer later in life, and the pain of these types of skin burns. The following suggestions will help make this season healthier and more bearable:

Infants

Infants should not be exposed to the summer sun without generous protective measures. Even under the shade of an umbrella, the powerful ultra-violet rays can cause serious burns to an infant's tender skin and eyes.

Sunscreen should not be used on Infants under the age of 6 months of age. Even baby sunscreen contains chemicals that could harm your child.

Lightweight, light colored clothing should be worn in the sun at all times. This clothing should include a hat to protect your baby's sensitive scalp. (See Dressing Baby).

In the tropics and sub-tropics, such as Florida, it is recommended that you treat summer as a northerner would treat winter. Stay indoors and out of the elements with your infant.

Elsewhere in the world, infants should be shaded and their time in the outdoors limited. Short excursions are preferable.

Protect eyes with sunglasses. Not only fashionable, but also functional!

Keep babies out of windy conditions including colder climate windy conditions.

Toddlers and Young Children

Use a generous amount of waterproof sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher). Many are formulated just for children (PABA free). These tend to be hypoallergenic. Reapply as instructions recommend.

Lightweight, light colored clothing should be worn in the sun at all times. This clothing should include a hat to protect your toddler's scalp and face. Hats that have an additional flap protect their necks work very well.

Limit time outdoors with children.

Protect eyes with sunglasses regardless of the climate. Snow reflects the sun and can cause serious burns to tender skin.

If your child naps outside and conditions appear windy, cover your child with a light towel or blanket to protect from windburn. A wind barrier is also beneficial.

Protect lips from sun and wind with a sunscreen lip balm or protective ointment. Never use petroleum jelly on lips in the sun. Petroleum jellies can amplify the sun's rays causing serious burns.

Reapply sunscreen immediately after swimming (even if the product says it is waterproof).

Your child's pediatrician should be consulted for severe sun or windburn, especially if fever is present.

Your child's pediatrician should be consulted for any blistering of the skin as a result of sunburn or windburn.

Pregnant women should avoid over exposure to the sun as well. Avoid risk of dehydration by drinking lots of fluids and using a sunscreen of 30 or higher as well.

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Dressing Baby
Childhood Illness and Disease

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Sunburn and Windburn Safety