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What it is

A sunburn is when the skin becomes red and painful from staying in the sun too long. Blisters may appear.

What you can do at home

What to do
  • Apply a cold cloth to your child’s skin or give them a cool bath for 10 to 20 minutes. 
  • Apply an unscented moisturizing cream or aloe vera gel. 
  • Have your child drink plenty of liquids (such as water, rehydration drinks, milk). 
  • If your child is in pain, follow your pharmacy’s advice. You can give them acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (such as Advil) if there are no contraindications. Note: Ibuprofen should not be given to children under 6 months of age. 

If the skin or blister is broken or torn:  

  • Apply an antibiotic ointment (such as Polysporin) if there are no contraindications. Ask for advice at the pharmacy if needed. 
  • Apply a bandage and change it once a day and when it gets dirty. Gently wash the wound with tap water and mild soap before applying a new bandage. 
Avoid
  • Do not go back into the sun until the skin has healed. Do not apply sunscreen to a child under 6 months of age.  
  • Do not apply petroleum-based ointments or products, cortisone, or pain-relief cream. Ask for advice at the pharmacy. 
  • Do not pop the blister.  

When to seek medical attention

If your child have any of these signs:
  • The blister is larger than 2.5 cm; 
  • Your child is still in pain, despite medication; 
  • The skin smells bad, becomes red, swollen, or hot, or pus (yellow or green liquid) appears; 
  • Your child has a fever; 
  • The skin is not healing, despite following the recommended care. 

Call 811, Option 1, to speak with a nurse, or contact a healthcare professional (pharmacist, doctor, nurse practitioner) if any of the signs listed above apply.

When to go to the hospital right away

Your child cannot drink enough to keep hydrated.
There are blisters on a large area of your child’s body.

Need help?

Call Info-Santé at 811, Option 1, to speak with a nurse at any time.   

Go to the pharmacy for advice on medications or treatment.   

Make an appointment at your medical clinic or CLSC.   

If you do not have a family doctor, go to gap.soinsvirtuels.gouv.qc.ca/fr or call 811, Option 3.    

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