How to Treat Sunburns for Adults and Kids in Connecticut: What Parents Need to Know This Summer

Summer Sunburn Care in Connecticut: A Guide for Adults and Kids

Sunburns are among the most common summertime skin concerns we treat at Dermatology Physicians of Connecticut. Whether you’re hiking in Fairfield County, relaxing on the beach in Westport, or sending your child to summer camp in New Haven County, it’s important to know how to prevent and treat sunburns—and when to seek help from a Connecticut dermatologist.

🔥 What Is a Sunburn?

A sunburn occurs when your skin is overexposed to ultraviolet (UV) rays, leading to redness, inflammation, and damage to the skin’s surface. Even one severe sunburn can increase the risk of skin cancer, including melanoma. That’s why sun protection is essential for Connecticut residents—throughout all four seasons.

🧴 How to Treat Sunburns in Adults

Whether you live in Fairfield, Litchfield, New Haven, New London County or beyond, we should all enjoy the beautiful summertime weather here in Connecticut—but it’s important to stay mindful of sun protection. If you do sustain a mild to moderate sunburn, here are some steps to help manage it:

• Cool the skin: Take a cool (not cold) shower or apply a damp, soft cloth to the affected area.
• Moisturize: Use aloe vera or a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer like CeraVe or Aveeno.
• Hydrate: Drink plenty of water to support the healing process.
• Relieve pain: Take ibuprofen or acetaminophen for discomfort according to package instructions nad as recommended by your doctor.
• Avoid further sun exposure: Wear protective clothing or stay in the shade while your skin heals.

🧒 Sunburn in Kids—Especially at Summer Camp

With many children across Connecticut heading to summer camps, it’s important for parents to take extra steps to help protect their kids from sunburn while they’re away from home.

Sun Safety Tips for Parents:

• Send a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen formulated for children.
• Choose mineral-based ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide for gentle, effective protection.
• Ask camp staff to remind kids to reapply sunscreen every 2 hours and after swimming.
• Pack a hat, UV-protective clothing, and a refillable water bottle.

If your child gets sunburned:

• Apply cool compresses and aloe vera gel.
• Encourage fluids to prevent dehydration.
• Watch for signs of severe sunburn, including blisters, fever, or fatigue.

🩺 When to See a Dermatologist in Connecticut

Some sunburns need more than home care. Contact a Connecticut dermatologist if:

• The sunburn covers a large area or causes blistering.
• You or your child develops a fever, chills, or confusion.
• The skin shows signs of infection (oozing, spreading redness, or warmth).
• You notice unusual moles or skin discoloration afterward.

At Dermatology Physicians of Connecticut, we provide expert care for sunburns, skin cancer screenings, and cosmetic and medical dermatology at convenient locations across the state—including Branford, Farfield, Hamden, New Haven, New London, Norwalk, Oxford, Shelton, Stamford, and Woodbridge.

🧴 Sunburn Prevention Tips for Connecticut Residents

• Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.
• Apply sunscreen 15 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every 2 hours.
• Don’t forget spots like the ears, neck, hands, and feet.
• Check the UV Index before heading out—especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

🧑‍⚕️ Need a Dermatologist for Sunburn or Skin Concerns in CT?

Sunburns can be more serious than they appear. If you or your child experiences frequent sunburns, peeling skin, or unusual skin changes, schedule a visit with one of our experienced providers at Dermatology Physicians of Connecticut. We proudly serve families throughout Fairfield County, New Haven County, and beyond.

📍 Find us in Branford, Farfield, Hamden, New Haven, New London, Norwalk, Oxford, Shelton, Stamford, and Woodbridge

🧴 Stock up on dermatologist-recommended sunscreen while you’re at it – click here to purchase our recommended sunscreens

📅 Schedule your annual skin check today

Convenient Locations Across Connecticut:

📍 Branford
📍 Fairfield
📍 Hamden
📍 New Haven
📍 New London
📍 Norwalk
📍 Oxford
📍 Shelton
📍 Stamford

📅  Book an appointment online or give our office a call at 203-538-5682 to schedule an appointment at a location near you!