Baby skin is more delicate and susceptible to ultraviolet (UV) radiation than adult skin. Sunburn occurs when this sensitive skin is overexposed to the sun’s UV rays, leading to inflammation and cellular damage. Infants lack the protective melanin adults possess, making them vulnerable to even brief periods of intense sunlight.
How Baby Sunburn Appears
Sunburn on a baby’s skin often first appears as a subtle pinkness that can deepen to a distinct red. The affected area will feel warm to the touch and can appear swollen. Unlike a heat rash, which often presents as small, red bumps or blisters, sunburn creates a more uniform redness across the exposed skin.
Areas commonly affected include the face, ears, neck, shoulders, and the tops of the feet, as these are frequently uncovered. The skin can feel tender or painful when gently touched, leading to increased fussiness or crying. Sometimes, the redness may not be immediately apparent and can develop several hours after sun exposure.
Assessing Sunburn Severity
Gauging the seriousness of a baby’s sunburn involves observing both the skin’s reaction and the baby’s overall well-being. Mild sunburn presents as redness and warmth without blistering. More severe cases can show signs like peeling skin, which may begin a few days later as damaged skin sheds.
Blistering is a sign of a more severe burn and indicates deeper skin damage. Beyond skin changes, systemic symptoms can arise, indicating a more widespread reaction to the burn. These can include a fever, unusual lethargy, or increased irritability. Signs of dehydration, such as fewer wet diapers, a dry mouth, or a lack of tears when crying, suggest a more severe response.
When to Call a Doctor
Medical attention is necessary when a baby experiences sunburn. Contact a pediatrician immediately if the baby is under six months old and has any degree of sunburn, as their delicate system is vulnerable. Extensive blistering, especially over a large area, warrants a doctor’s visit.
Look for signs of dehydration, such as a sunken soft spot (fontanelle) on the head, extreme thirst, or infrequent urination, as these indicate a more severe condition. A high fever accompanying the sunburn, or if the baby appears unusually lethargic, unresponsive, or is experiencing severe pain, also indicate seeking medical advice.
Protecting Babies from the Sun
Preventing sunburn in infants focuses on minimizing direct sun exposure. Keep babies under six months old out of direct sunlight entirely. Seeking dense shade under trees or canopies provides a natural barrier against UV rays. Limiting outdoor time between 10 AM and 4 PM is important, as UV radiation is strongest during these hours.
Dressing babies in lightweight, loose-fitting clothing made of tightly woven fabrics offers protection. Long-sleeved shirts and pants can cover the arms and legs, while a wide-brimmed hat provides shade for the face, ears, and neck.
For babies six months and older, applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 to 50 to all exposed skin is recommended. For infants under six months, sunscreen can be applied to small areas like the face or backs of hands if protective clothing and shade are not available. Mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are preferred for babies.