Red flags & when to go in person for Sunburn (Mild to Moderate) in Children

Audience: pediatric

Mild to moderate sunburn in children usually causes redness, warmth, and some discomfort or pain on the skin. It often heals on its own with simple care like cool compresses, moisturizing, and avoiding more sun exposure. However, some signs mean you should seek in-person medical care quickly. These include severe pain, large blisters, fever, dehydration, or if the child is very young or has other health problems. Telemedicine can help guide you on how to care for mild sunburn, when to watch closely, and when to get urgent help. This guide explains common symptoms, warning signs, and how telehealth can support your child’s care safely.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Large blisters covering a significant area of skin — seek in-person care immediately.
• Fever above 38°C (100.4°F) accompanying sunburn — get urgent medical evaluation.
• Signs of dehydration such as dry mouth, no tears when crying, or very little urination — go to healthcare facility promptly.

What telemedicine can do

• Assessing mild to moderate sunburn symptoms via video.
• Providing guidance on home care and hydration.
• Recommending over-the-counter pain relief appropriate for children.
• Advising when to seek in-person care based on symptom severity.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Managing severe sunburn with extensive blistering.
• Treating infections or complications from sunburn.
• Performing physical examinations requiring touch or diagnostic tests.
• Providing emergency care for dehydration or high fever.

What is Mild to Moderate Sunburn in Children?

Sunburn happens when the skin gets too much ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun. Mild to moderate sunburn usually causes red, warm, and tender skin. Your child might feel itchy or sore where the sun touched. The skin may peel a few days later as it heals. This type of sunburn is common and often improves with home care.

Common Symptoms and Care Tips

Typical signs include redness, mild swelling, and pain or tenderness. You can help by:

Red Flags: When to Seek In-Person Care

Some symptoms need urgent medical attention. Go to a healthcare facility if your child has:

How Telemedicine Can Help

Telemedicine providers can assess mild sunburn by asking about symptoms and showing the skin via video. They can guide you on home care, pain management, and when to watch closely. They can also help decide if your child needs to be seen in person quickly. However, they cannot treat severe cases or perform physical exams that require hands-on care.

Preventing Future Sunburns

Protect your child by:

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Have your child's symptoms ready to describe, including when the sunburn started.
• Prepare to show the affected skin area clearly on video if possible.
• List any medications your child is currently taking.
• Note any other symptoms such as fever, pain level, or changes in behavior.
• Ensure a quiet, well-lit environment for the telemedicine visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the care advice given by the telemedicine provider.
• Use recommended moisturizers and pain relief as directed.
• Keep your child hydrated and out of the sun.
• Monitor for any worsening symptoms or new red flags.
• Schedule an in-person visit if symptoms do not improve or worsen.

FAQs

Can I use sunscreen on my child if they already have a mild sunburn?

It is usually best to avoid applying sunscreen on skin that is already sunburned and irritated. Instead, protect your child by keeping them out of the sun and covering the skin with loose, soft clothing until the sunburn heals.

How long does it take for a mild sunburn to heal in children?

Mild sunburn typically improves within 3 to 5 days. The skin may peel as it heals. If symptoms last longer or worsen, consult a healthcare provider.

When should I give my child pain medicine for sunburn?

You can give age-appropriate pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen if your child is uncomfortable. Follow the dosing instructions on the package or as advised by your healthcare provider.

Is it safe to use aloe vera on my child's sunburn?

Yes, applying a gentle aloe vera gel or moisturizer can help soothe mild sunburn. Avoid products with fragrances or alcohol, which may irritate the skin.

Can sunburn cause serious health problems in children?

Severe sunburn can lead to dehydration, infection, or heat-related illnesses. Repeated sunburns increase the risk of skin damage and skin cancer later in life. Always protect your child from excessive sun exposure.

Sources

1. Sunburn — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Sunburn: Symptoms and Causes — Mayo Clinic.
3. Sun Safety for Children — 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 are severe, worsening, or you have any concerns, seek medical attention promptly.