Can Telemedicine Treat Sunburn (Mild to Moderate) in Children?

Audience: pediatric

Mild to moderate sunburn in children usually causes redness, pain, and sometimes swelling or peeling of the skin. Telemedicine can often help families manage these symptoms by providing advice on soothing treatments, hydration, and ways to prevent further sun damage. During a virtual visit, a healthcare provider can assess the sunburn's severity through video or photos and recommend over-the-counter remedies and care tips. However, telemedicine cannot replace in-person care if the sunburn is severe, if blisters cover a large area, or if the child shows signs of infection or dehydration. Parents should watch for warning signs and seek emergency care if needed. Telemedicine is a useful tool to guide families through mild sunburn care safely and conveniently.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Large blisters covering a significant part of the body — seek urgent in-person care.
• High fever (above 38°C or 100.4°F) with sunburn — get emergency medical attention.
• Signs of infection such as increasing redness, pus, swelling, or warmth around the sunburn — see a healthcare provider promptly.

What telemedicine can do

• Assessment of mild to moderate sunburn through video or photos.
• Providing advice on symptom relief such as cool compresses and moisturizers.
• Guidance on hydration and sun protection measures.
• Education on when to seek in-person care.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Treatment of severe sunburn with extensive blistering.
• Management of sunburn with signs of infection or dehydration.
• Emergency care for high fever or systemic symptoms related to sunburn.

What Is Mild to Moderate Sunburn in Children?

Sunburn happens when skin is damaged by too much sun exposure. Mild to moderate sunburn usually means the skin is red, warm, and painful but does not have large blisters or deep skin damage. Children may also feel tired or have a low fever. This type of sunburn often heals on its own with simple care.

How Can Telemedicine Help?

Through a video call or photos, a healthcare provider can look at your child's sunburn and ask about symptoms. They can suggest ways to ease pain and swelling, such as using cool compresses, moisturizing lotions, and giving plenty of fluids. They can also advise on when to avoid sun exposure and how to protect the skin during healing.

When Is In-Person Care Needed?

If your child has large blisters, severe pain, fever over 38°C (100.4°F), signs of infection (like pus, increasing redness, or swelling), or symptoms of dehydration (such as very dry mouth, no tears when crying, or little urine), you should seek in-person medical care immediately. These signs mean the sunburn is more serious and needs hands-on treatment.

Preventing Future Sunburns

Protect your child by applying broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30, dressing them in protective clothing, and avoiding sun exposure during peak hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.). Teaching children about sun safety helps prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage.

Tips for Telemedicine Visits About Sunburn

Prepare clear photos of the sunburned areas and note any symptoms your child has experienced. Be ready to describe how the sunburn happened and any treatments already tried. This information helps the provider give the best advice remotely.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Take clear photos of the sunburned skin areas in good lighting.
• Note your child's symptoms, including pain level, fever, and any blistering.
• List any treatments or remedies already used.
• Have your child's age and medical history available.
• Find a quiet, well-lit place for the telemedicine visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider's advice on skin care and hydration.
• Monitor your child for any worsening symptoms or new warning signs.
• Keep the child out of direct sunlight until the skin heals.
• Use recommended sun protection methods going forward.
• Schedule follow-up care if symptoms do not improve or worsen.

FAQs

Can I use sunscreen on my child's sunburn?

It's best to avoid applying sunscreen on skin that is already sunburned and irritated. Instead, protect the area with loose clothing and keep your child out of direct sunlight until the skin heals.

What home remedies help relieve sunburn pain in children?

Cool compresses, moisturizing lotions (like aloe vera), and giving plenty of fluids can help ease discomfort. Avoid using harsh soaps or lotions with fragrances that may irritate the skin.

When should I take my child to the emergency room for sunburn?

Seek emergency care if your child has large blisters over a large area, a high fever, signs of dehydration (such as very dry mouth or no urination), or if they seem very ill or confused.

Is it safe to give my child pain relievers for sunburn?

Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen may help reduce pain and fever. Use the correct dose for your child's age and weight, and consult a healthcare provider if unsure.

Can telemedicine providers prescribe medication for sunburn?

Telemedicine providers can often recommend or prescribe medications like pain relievers or topical creams if appropriate. However, they cannot provide prescriptions for severe cases needing in-person evaluation.

Sources

1. Sunburn — MedlinePlus | U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health.
2. Sunburn: Symptoms and Causes — Mayo Clinic.
3. Sun Safety and Protection — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Sunburn in Children — American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your child's symptoms worsen or you have concerns, seek direct medical attention promptly.