Sunburn Relief for Kids

Vacationing in the summer always means increased time outdoors. Often in a rental beach home or cabin. A child's summer sunburn can ruin her vacation and make the whole family miserable. The best approach is to prevent sunburn with application of sunscreen, avoidance of the sun in mid-day and use of clothes that cover the skin. Prevention will not only keep you child from a hurtful burn but will provide later in life protection against increased risk of skin cancer. If your child gets a sunburn anyway here are some inexpensive home remedies that often work.

Natural products can help soothe the skin and minimize the burning feeling. Often simple actions such as staying in a cool room, wearing loose fitting clothes like pajamas or a nightgown or soft tee shirt and drinking cool water will help. Two products that are important to have on hand are sunburn relief lotions or gels that include aloe vera and Avenno colloidal Oatmeal for burn and itching relief in a bath.

Frequent cool baths and showers

The tipnut.com suggests that cool baths can provide relief that is often immediate and will last for a bit after leaving the tub. If available use colloidal oatmeal from Aveeno in the bath. In a pinch you can use regular oats, 1 - 2 cups baking soda or a gallon of milk. Fill a bath with cool water add the baking soda, Aveeno colloidal oatmeal or milk and have your child soak for about 30 minutes. Use a soft wash cloth to gently press the water to areas that are burned but not covered by water. Apply a light moisturizer after the bath to help with burning and itching.

Lotions, poultices and damp wraps.

There are home remedies that can be used for relief. Many of the ingredients can be found in your kitchen cabinets. Cool tea bags applied to the burn area will provide some relief as can cool cloths that are soaked in vinegar or milk. A light paste of cornstarch may help in small burned areas as will plain yogurt smoothed gently over the burn. A poultice of baking soda applied to the burn area can also provide relief.

Water and Sun Avoidance

Remember that your child may be dehydrated due to hours in the sun and the burn. Make sure they get water and stay cool. keep you child out of the sun and covered while they are recovering.