How to prepare for a video visit about Sunburn (Mild to Moderate)

Audience: pediatric

Sunburn is a common skin injury caused by too much exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun. Mild to moderate sunburn in children usually leads to red, warm skin and sometimes pain or peeling. Preparing for a video visit about sunburn helps you share important details with the healthcare provider. During the visit, the provider will ask about symptoms, how the sunburn happened, and any treatments already tried. They may give advice on how to care for the skin at home and when to seek more urgent care. This guide helps you get ready for the visit, understand what telemedicine can and cannot do for sunburn, and know when to get in-person help. Remember, telemedicine is a helpful tool but does not replace emergency or hands-on medical care when needed.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• High fever (above 38°C or 100.4°F) with sunburn — seek urgent care.
• Large or spreading blisters or skin that looks infected (increased redness, warmth, pus).
• Signs of dehydration such as dry mouth, no tears when crying, or very little urine output.

What telemedicine can do

• Assessment of mild to moderate sunburn symptoms.
• Providing advice on home care and symptom management.
• Guidance on when to seek in-person care.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Treatment of severe sunburn with extensive blistering or infection.
• Emergency care for signs of heatstroke, severe dehydration, or allergic reactions.
• Physical procedures such as wound care or dressing changes.

What is Mild to Moderate Sunburn?

Mild to moderate sunburn usually causes red, tender skin that feels warm to the touch. It may cause pain, swelling, and sometimes blisters. The skin might peel a few days after the burn. This type of sunburn often heals on its own with proper care at home.

How to Prepare for Your Video Visit

Before your video visit, gather information about your child's sunburn. Note when the sunburn happened, how long they were in the sun, and any symptoms such as pain, blisters, or fever. Have a list of any treatments you've already tried, like cool compresses or lotions. Make sure your device camera works well so the provider can see the skin clearly. Find a quiet, well-lit space for the visit.

What to Expect During the Video Visit

The healthcare provider will ask questions about your child's symptoms and medical history. They may ask to see the sunburned areas through the camera. Based on the information, they will offer advice on how to care for the sunburn, suggest medications if needed, and tell you signs to watch for that need urgent care.

Home Care Tips for Sunburn

Common care steps include:

Avoid using harsh soaps or creams that may irritate the skin.

When to Seek In-Person Medical Care

If your child develops severe pain, large blisters, fever, chills, confusion, or signs of dehydration, seek in-person medical care immediately. These may indicate a more serious sunburn or infection.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Note the time and duration of sun exposure.
• Observe and note symptoms like redness, pain, blisters, fever.
• List any treatments already used.
• Test your device camera and internet connection.
• Choose a well-lit, quiet space for the visit.
• Have a list of your child's allergies and current medications ready.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the care advice given by the healthcare provider.
• Use recommended moisturizers and pain relief as directed.
• Keep your child hydrated and rested.
• Monitor for any worsening symptoms or new red flags.
• Schedule a follow-up visit if symptoms do not improve or worsen.

FAQs

Can I use sunscreen on sunburned skin?

It's best to avoid applying sunscreen directly on sunburned skin until it has healed. Once the skin starts to recover, use sunscreen to protect it from further damage.

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

Yes, over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen are often safe for children to help reduce pain and inflammation. Follow dosing instructions carefully and consult your healthcare provider if unsure.

How long does a mild to moderate sunburn usually take to heal?

Most mild to moderate sunburns heal within a week to 10 days. The skin may peel during healing, which is normal.

Can sunburn cause fever in children?

Yes, sunburn can sometimes cause a mild fever. However, a high fever or persistent fever should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

What should I avoid doing on sunburned skin?

Avoid scratching, peeling the skin, using harsh soaps, or applying oily or scented creams that may irritate the skin.

Sources

1. Sunburn — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health.
2. Sunburn: First Aid — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Sunburn — Mayo Clinic.
4. Sunburn: Consumer Information — Merck Manuals: Consumer Version.

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 prompt medical attention.