Sunburn is a reaction of the skin to exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or other sources such as tanning beds. Repeated sunburn will increase your risk of skin cancers. These include malignant melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma and basal cell carcinoma. All types of sunburn, whether serious or mild, can cause permanent and irreversible skin dam- age. For these reasons, intentionally exposing your skin to UV radiation is unwise. Said another way, we do not recommend tanning beds or sunbathing. UV Radiation is harmful to the skin and should be avoided. 

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is most intense from 10 am–2 pm (or 11 am–3 pm during daylight savings time). In Arkansas, sunburn can occur in as little as 30 minutes in the middle of a hot day. To prevent sunburn, it is recommended to use a sunscreen with a SPF of at least 30. Apply the sunscreen 30 minutes before exposure. Hats and long loose clothing can also protect your child’s skin from the sun. Sunburns typically heal them- selves within a few weeks. If your child is sunburned, depending on the severity and location of the sunburn, the following may help:

• To alleviate pain and heat caused by the sunburn, take a cool (not cold) bath, or gently apply cool, wet compresses to the skin.
• Take a pain reliever such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen (see dosing guide).
• To rehydrate the skin and help reduce swelling, apply topical moisturizing cream, aloe, or 1 percent hydro-cortisone cream.
• Stay in the shade until the sunburn is healed. Additional sun exposure will only increase the severity and pain of the sunburn.
• If the sunburn is severe and blisters occur, consult us within 24 hours.