How to Treat Your Baby's Sunburn

Despite your best efforts, your baby has got a sunburn. There are some things you can do to make your baby more comfortable. Here are some tips.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• breastmilk or formula
• cold compresses
• baking soda
• aloe vera lotion

1. Cool your baby with cool, wet cloths. Apply the cool, wet cloths for 10-15 minutes. Make sure the cloths are not cold, just cool. Also, make sure your baby does not get chilled.

2. Give your baby lots of fluids. If your baby has been in the sun a long time, he or she may have suffered some dehydration. A baby needs extra breast milk or formula.

3. Give your child a lukewarm (not cold!) bath with a tablespoon of baking soda. This should feel good to your baby.

4. Rub your baby gently with aloe vera lotion. Aloe vera lotions should be safe for your baby.

5. Call your doctor and ask if your child can have some over-the-counter ibuprofen. Ask your doctor for a recommended brand. Your child will need to be at least 6 months old for ibuprofen. Never give your child any medications without approval from his or her doctor.

6. Dress your child in loose, comfortable clothing that does not bind at all. Make sure your baby is comfortable as a sunburn is painful.

7. If your baby is severely sunburned or develops blisters, call your doctor immediately. Never pop blisters. Skin that has blisters can become infected.

Tips & Warnings

• If your baby gets a sunburn, call your doctor.