mountain range under golden hour

How Can I Protect My Child from the Harmful Effects of the Sun?

SNIPPETS

Dr Praful Gowda

2 min read

Sunlight gives us warmth, energy, and also helps the body produce Vitamin D. But too much sun exposure, especially between 10 AM and 4 PM, can harm a child’s delicate skin.

Too much sun exposure can cause:

  • Sunburn – Red, painful, hot skin, sometimes with blisters

  • Tanning & skin darkening – Not harmful itself, but shows UV damage

  • Skin damage & premature aging over time

  • Dehydration, heat exhaustion, or heat stroke

  • Increased lifetime risk of skin problems

Children’s skin is thinner and more sensitive than adults, so UV damage happens faster in kids.

When Should Parents Worry?

Seek medical help if your child has:

  • Severe sunburn with blisters

  • Fever, vomiting, lethargy after sun exposure

  • Extreme tiredness or fainting

  • Headache, confusion, rapid breathing

  • Very painful or swollen skin

These may indicate sunburn complications or heat exhaustion/heat stroke, which need medical attention.

How to Protect Your Child from the Harmful Effects of the Sun

1️⃣ Time Your Outdoor Activities Wisely

Try to avoid strong sunlight between:

  • 10 AM to 4 PM (especially in summer in Karnataka)
    If outdoor time is unavoidable, ensure shade, hydration, and protection.

2️⃣ Dress Smart

Clothing is the best sun protection.

Choose:

  • Lightweight full-sleeve cotton clothes

  • Long pants or leggings when possible

  • Wide-brimmed hats covering ears and neck

  • UV-protection sunglasses (if available)

Avoid:

  • Sleeveless tops during peak sun

  • Tight, synthetic fabrics that trap heat

3️⃣ Use Sunscreen Correctly (Yes, Kids Can Use Sunscreen)

For babies under 6 months, avoid direct sun; use shade and clothing primarily.
For children above 6 months, sunscreen is safe and helpful.

What to Look For in Sunscreen

  • SPF 30 or above

  • Broad spectrum (protects from UVA & UVB)

  • Prefer water-resistant

  • For sensitive skin: look for zinc oxide or titanium dioxide formulations

How to Apply

  • Apply 15–20 minutes before going outdoors

  • Cover face, ears, back of neck, arms, legs, feet

  • Reapply every 2–3 hours

  • Reapply after swimming or sweating

Common Mistakes Parents Make

  • Applying too little sunscreen

  • Using adult cosmetic sunscreen (choose child-friendly)

  • Thinking sunscreen is needed only in summer – UV rays are present year-round

4️⃣ Keep Your Child Hydrated

Children lose fluids quickly in the sun.

Give:

  • Water frequently

  • Buttermilk, tender coconut water, homemade lemon water

  • Avoid excessive soft drinks and packaged juices

5️⃣ Encourage Shade

Teach children simple rules:

  • Play under trees or shaded areas

  • Use umbrellas or caps when outside

  • Sit in shade on sunny school grounds

What to Do If Your Child Gets Sunburn

  • Move the child indoors

  • Apply cool compresses

  • Use soothing moisturiser or aloe vera gel

  • Give plenty of fluids

  • Avoid oil, toothpaste, talcum powder, and harsh home remedies

  • Do not pop blisters

Consult a doctor if pain is severe or blisters form.

Doctor’s Tips for Parents

  • Sunscreen is not a luxury—it’s a safety tool in Indian climate

  • School-going kids should carry a water bottle always

  • Teach your child sun-safety habits early

  • Babies under 6 months should be kept out of harsh direct sunlight

  • Shade + clothing + sunscreen together work best

FAQs

1️⃣ Does my child need sunscreen daily?

If your child spends more than 15–20 minutes outdoors during the day, sunscreen is helpful—especially in sunny cities like Bengaluru, Mysuru, Mangaluru, Hubli, and coastal Karnataka.

2️⃣ Isn’t sunlight needed for Vitamin D?

Yes, but short, safe morning sunlight exposure is enough. Never expose your child to harsh midday sun just for Vitamin D.

3️⃣ Can sunscreen cause side effects?

Most children tolerate sunscreen well. Rarely, some may have irritation or allergy. Test on a small skin area first. Choose child-safe brands recommended by your pediatrician.

Conclusion

Sunshine is wonderful, but too much of it can harm your child’s skin and health. With simple steps like timing outdoor play, protective clothing, sunscreen, and hydration, you can keep your child safe, happy, and healthy in the sun.

References

  • Indian Academy of Pediatrics (IAP) guidelines

  • World Health Organization (WHO) – Sun protection in children

  • American Academy of Pediatrics – Sun safety recommendations

  • UpToDate – Pediatric sunburn prevention and care

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