Cures For 9 Common (and Really Annoying) Summer Bummers

Summertime's supposed to be all about fun-filled, agenda-free days, outdoor activity, and staying up (just a little bit) past bedtime. A surefire way to throw a wrench into that plan? A painful splinter, a killer mosquito bite, or a bad case of swimmer's ear. They're all inevitable parts of being a kid, but the faster we can prevent or get rid of them, the better! Here, nine cures for the most common complaints of the Summer. Source: Thinkstock

01
Bug Bites
Thinkstock | ronniechua

Bug Bites

Problem: No matter how many citronella candles you light, and how much but spray you spray, those pesky mosquitos are bound to bite.

Solved: From baking soda to vinegar, our readers shared their top home remedies for taking the sting out of those bothersome bites. Best of all? You're likely to have most of the necessary products already in your pantry.

02
Green Hair

Green Hair

Problem: While chlorine can have damaging effects on all colors of hair, blondes are especially susceptible to discoloration . . . and really, who wants green hair?

Solved: Ultra Swim has been around forever — for good reason. Come Summer time, swap it for your kids' regular shampoo, and use a leave-in conditioner to restore moisture. If they're in the pool constantly and have light-colored hair, a swimming cap is a good idea. Source: Flickr user Tony Crider

03
Swimsuit Snags and Fading

Swimsuit Snags and Fading

Problem: With the amount of time that kids spend in their swimsuits during the Summer, it's no wonder that they're susceptible to snags and fast fading.

Solved: The cement surface that surrounds most pools is prime for snagging. If your kids are sitting by the side of the pool, try to get a towel under their little bums. According to VIP Cleaners, you should always hand-wash suits with mild detergent, and be sure to rinse thoroughly. To dry, gently roll the suit in a towel to remove excess water, then allow it to air dry (away from the sun). Source: Flickr user Ed Yourdon

04
Wood Splinters
Thinkstock | Jupiterimages

Wood Splinters

Problem: Ouch! Running around barefoot on the boardwalk is fun, until there's a tiny piece of wood ingrained in your kid's hand or foot.

Solved: To prevent infection, the most important thing you can do is keep the splinter site clean. Wash it with soap and water, then use a pair of sterilized tweezers to pry the wood out. Alternatively, if it's sticking out of the skin's surface, you can try putting a piece of Scotch tape on to see if it'll come out that way instead.

05
Lice
Shutterstock

Lice

Problem: As the Summer camp season kicks off, kids in close quarters are likely to lead to outbreaks of these little creepy crawlers.

Solved: Follow our eight-step guide that includes tips for both preventing and getting rid of an infestation in your kiddo's crowning glory.

06
Red Eyes

Red Eyes

Problem: Chlorine exposure can leave eyes red, stinging, and/or puffy.

Solved: The Mayo Clinic's best advice is to try to get your kids to wear goggles in the pool. If that doesn't work (or they're unwilling), rinse their eyes out with a sterile eyewash or artificial tear solution immediately after they return from the pool. Source: Flickr user Rona Proudfoot

07
All-Over Chlorine Irritation
Thinkstock | Creatas Images

All-Over Chlorine Irritation

Problem: Sensitive, dry skin is particularly prone to "chlorine itch" or "chlorine rash."

Solved: Get your kids to rinse off in the shower immediately after they've been in a swimming pool. Use cool water and a basic, natural soap. Afterward, apply a heavy moisturizing or anti-itch cream.

08
Swimmer's Ear
Thinkstock | Photodisc

Swimmer's Ear

Problem: Swimmer's ear is an inflammation of the ear canal that's caused when water, sand, or other debris accumulate and cause the growth of bacteria or fungus, according to Everyday Health.

Solved: Keep ears dry by gently tipping the head from side to side after each swim. Dry the outer ear with a soft towel or cloth to get rid of any residual water. The Mayo Clinic suggests applying a teaspoon of a homemade solution of one part white vinegar and one part rubbing alcohol to each ear to facilitate drying and help prevent the growth of bacteria. The pediatrician can also prescribe medicated ear drops if the damage is already done.

09
Sunburn
Thinkstock | Yana Gulyanovska

Sunburn

Problem: An unfortunate and unwelcome souvenir from a day of fun at the beach or pool, sunburn isn't just uncomfortable, it can have scary repercussions years down the line as well.

Solved: Every mom knows that frequent and thorough sunscreen application is essential any time your kids are going to be playing out in the sun. But if the rays get the best of them, there are a few wise ways to treat the painful burn. The good news, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation, is that young skin heals a lot more quickly than older skin. Since sunburn can cause dehydration, make sure that your child drinks plenty of fluids. A bath in a clear (no bubbles!), lukewarm tub can cool and soothe the skin, as can the application of a light moisturizing or calamine lotion. Steer clear of any product containing alcohol, hydrocortisone, benzocaine, or added antihistatmines. And be sure to use a gentle hand when applying lotion — the last thing that burn needs is added agitation.