Tips for caring for children’s skin in summer

In this article, we share a number of tips for caring for children’s skin in summer and explain how to deal with some of the most common problems and risks at this time of year.

If children were asked to choose their favourite season, summer would probably come out on top. The days are longer, the weather is warmer, there is no school, they see their friends, go to the swimming pool, spend time on boats or at the beach, and are outdoors for much of the day.

However, the skin is one of the organs that can be particularly affected during the summer, precisely because of many of these factors. Sun exposure, seawater, chlorine in swimming pools and sweat can cause dermatological problems and aggravate existing skin conditions in children.

Below are some recommendations to help reduce these risks.

Tips for caring for children’s skin in summer

Atopic dermatitis in summer

Higher temperatures, fewer episodes of fever and travel to more humid coastal areas often lead to an improvement in children with atopic dermatitis. However, not all factors associated with summer are equally beneficial for children with atopic dermatitis. In fact, some cases worsen considerably at this time of year.

For example, chlorine in swimming pools can aggravate eczema, while daily washing in holiday destinations with very hard water or high magnesium concentrations may increase irritation in this type of skin.

However, it is neither possible nor desirable to prevent children from enjoying time in the swimming pool, and the composition of tap water at holiday destinations cannot be changed.

For this reason, it may be useful to consult a dermatologist specialising in atopic dermatitis before the holidays begin, so that the child’s skin can be assessed and an individualised plan established to help them enjoy the summer while minimising skin discomfort.

The dermatologist may also recommend barrier creams that help protect the skin from chlorinated water and may advise shorter swimming sessions. Rinsing the skin with fresh water after each swim may also help reduce flare-ups.

During the summer months, it is important not to neglect the daily skincare routine of children with atopic dermatitis and, unless otherwise advised by the dermatologist, to continue it even when travelling to places where the condition tends to improve.

Be aware of molluscum contagiosum

Another aspect to consider when caring for children’s skin in summer is the possibility of lesions caused by molluscum contagiosum.

Children are more exposed to this viral infection during the summer because they spend more time in swimming pools, have more uncovered skin in contact with other people and are more likely to use warm, humid environments such as changing rooms and shower areas.

This viral infection is not dangerous, but it is contagious through close direct contact. It is particularly common in children, especially those with atopic dermatitis.

Molluscum contagiosum causes very characteristic skin lesions. These are small pink, yellowish or whitish bumps that often appear in clusters. They are not painful but can cause significant itching.

Although the lesions are not serious and tend to resolve spontaneously, they may take a long time to disappear, sometimes even years. For this reason, treatment is often carried out in the clinic by a dermatologist experienced in molluscum contagiosum.

Treatment is determined according to the child’s age, the extent of the lesions and their tolerance of procedures that may cause some discomfort. Common approaches include removing the lesions by curettage or applying topical products to help eliminate them and accelerate resolution.

Insect bites and jellyfish stings

Another common summer problem is insect bites and jellyfish stings. These can affect both children and adults, although children may experience more pain and anxiety, which can make assessment and treatment more difficult.

Jellyfish stings require specific care and should be assessed by a doctor, as symptoms that initially appear mild may progress to blistering or extension of the affected area. Initially, the affected area should be rinsed with seawater. Fresh water and home remedies such as ammonia, urine or bleach should be avoided, as they are not effective and may worsen the situation.

Seawater and, if available, saline solution can be used to help remove any remaining tentacle fragments attached to the skin. In all cases, it is advisable to attend the nearest first-aid post or seek medical assessment so that the affected area can be examined and the most appropriate treatment recommended. Applying local cold can help relieve the burning sensation, but ice should always be wrapped in a towel and never applied directly to the skin. For pain relief, the child’s usual analgesic may be given if it is normally used for other conditions.

Protecting children from the sun

Protecting children from solar radiation is essential when caring for their skin in summer.

Babies under six months of age should not be exposed directly to the sun and it is not advisable for them to spend prolonged periods at the beach. If they do go to the beach, they should remain there only for a short time and always stay in the shade, preferably wearing lightweight clothing made from natural fabrics such as cotton. It is important to remember that babies burn very easily and that sand and swimming-pool water reflect ultraviolet radiation.

From six months of age, babies can go to the beach and swimming pool provided that appropriate sun protection measures are used. According to the recommendations in this article, physical protection measures are particularly important in very young babies, including T-shirts, hats, scarves, sunglasses, parasols and awnings.

Between six months and three years of age, mineral sunscreens may be used. These are formulated so that ultraviolet radiation is reflected rather than penetrating the skin. They tend to be thicker than products containing chemical filters but may be particularly suitable at this age, especially in children with sensitive or atopic skin.

From the age of three, broad-spectrum children’s sunscreens containing chemical filters can be used. These should provide protection against ultraviolet A and B radiation, with an SPF of around 50. Even when a sunscreen is labelled as water-resistant, it should be reapplied every 90 minutes to two hours and after each swim. As in adults, sunscreen should also be applied carefully to areas that are sometimes missed, including the face, ears, nose, tops of the feet and neck.

Children should also use additional sun-protection measures, including protective clothing, hats and sunglasses. UV-protective clothing labelled UPF 50, such as long-sleeved or three-quarter-sleeved swimwear with some neck coverage, can be particularly useful. Children should also be encouraged to stay in the shade when playing or resting.

Post updated. First version published on 27 July 2022.

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