Sunburn can happen within 15 minutes. However you may not notice the redness and discomfort for a few hours. When  a baby younger than 1 year old gets it, call the pediatrician right away. For older children, call the doctor if there is blisters , fever or pain.

Signs of sunburn

Mild signs include the following :

• skin redness and warmth
• pain
• itchiness

More severe signs include :

• skin redness and blistering
• swelling
• pain and tingling
• headache
• nausea
• fever and chills
• dizziness

How to soothe the discomfort of sunburn

• remove the child from the sun right away
• give the child water or 100% fruit juice to replenish lost fluids
• use cool water to help the child’s skin better
• give the child acetaminophen or ibuprofen as directed if needed to relive pain
• use medicated lotion if the child’s doctor gives you the OK
• all sunburned  areas should be fully covered when going outside to protect the skin from the sun until fully healed