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Illnesses/First Aid

Sunburn in Babies

July 16, 2026

Key takeaways: Keep babies under 6 months out of direct sun, using shade and protective clothing. Sunscreen can be used on small areas of younger babies’ skin when shade isn’t available, and broadly on babies 6 months and older. A sunburn in a baby under 1 year should prompt a call to the doctor. Cool compresses, fluids, and pain relief help mild burns.

A baby’s skin is thin and burns quickly. Prevention is key.

Preventing Sunburn

Under 6 months:

  • Keep out of direct sunlight.
  • Use shade, stroller canopies, and umbrellas.
  • Dress in lightweight long sleeves, pants, and a wide-brimmed hat.
  • If shade isn’t possible, the AAP says a small amount of sunscreen (SPF 15 or higher) on small areas like the face and backs of hands is okay.

6 months and older:

  • Use broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Mineral sunscreens (zinc oxide, titanium dioxide) may be less irritating.
  • Apply 15 to 30 minutes before going out, and reapply every 2 hours and after swimming or sweating.
  • Keep using shade, clothing, and hats.
  • Avoid peak sun hours (about 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).

Remember: clouds don’t block UV rays, and water, sand, and snow reflect sunlight.

From the author

From First Breath to First Birthday is my month-by-month guide to your baby’s first year, written as a NICU and postpartum nurse. My book covers common first-year illnesses and the warning signs that mean it’s time to call the doctor, explained the way I’d explain them at the bedside.

See the book on Amazon →

Signs of Sunburn

  • Red, warm, tender skin.
  • Blistering in more severe burns.
  • Fussiness.

Caring for a Mild Sunburn

  • Get out of the sun.
  • Cool compresses or a cool bath.
  • Extra fluids (breast milk or formula).
  • Pain relief: ask your doctor about acetaminophen or ibuprofen (6 months and older).
  • Don’t pop blisters.
  • Avoid sun until healed.

Call your baby’s doctor if: your baby is under 1 year and has any sunburn, has blisters, fever, chills, headache, unusual sleepiness, or signs of dehydration.

The Bottom Line

Prevent sunburn with shade, clothing, and age-appropriate sunscreen. Call the doctor for any sunburn in a baby under 1.

Want more support for your baby’s first year? My book, From First Breath to First Birthday, is available on Amazon.

Related Articles

Sources

  1. American Academy of Pediatrics. Sun safety: information for parents about sunburn and sunscreen. HealthyChildren.org. https://www.healthychildren.org
  2. Council on Environmental Health and Section on Dermatology. Ultraviolet radiation: a hazard to children and adolescents. Pediatrics. 2011;127(3):588-597.
  3. American Academy of Dermatology. Sunscreen FAQs; how to protect your baby from the sun. https://www.aad.org

This article is for general education and is not a substitute for individualized medical advice. Always talk with your baby’s health care provider or your own provider about your specific situation. If you think your baby or you may have a medical emergency, call 911.

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