Pediatric Sun Safety Tips

The best way to prevent a sunburn is to limit sun exposure. The hottest part of the day is usually between 10am and 4pm. Thus, this is when your child’s skin can be affected the most.

Babies 6 months and under:

• It is best to avoid direct sun exposure.
• Your baby should wear a brimmed hat, light weight long pants and long sleeved shirt.
• Apply sunscreen with minimum SPF 15 to baby’s exposed areas such as hands and upper back/neck.

Older children:

• Your child should wear a brimmed hat and sunglasses when outdoors.
• Your child’s sunscreen should have minimum SPF 15 that has protection against both UVA and UVB rays.
• Apply sunscreen 15 to 30 minutes prior to your child’s outdoor activity.
• Make sure to reapply sunscreen every 1.5-2 hours. You should also reapply after your child’s swimming session or if your child has been sweating a lot.

If you think your child has a sunburn, apply cool compresses to the affected area and give acetaminophen for pain (correct dose for age and weight). Contact your pediatrician if you child’s sunburn causes blistering, fever, headaches or chills.

Be safe and have fun this summer.

Dr. Omosede Evbuomwan
MCH Healthy Kids Clinic
3001 JBS Pkwy, Odessa TX 79762
O: (432) 640-6772/F: (432) 640-4708
(Accepting new patients)