Sunburn

Overview

Sunburn is damage to the skin caused by too much ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun or artificial sources like tanning beds. It makes the skin become red, warm, tender, and sometimes painful. The skin may later peel as it heals.

Sunburn is very common, especially in summer or on sunny holidays. Many people get sunburned at least once in their lives, even in cooler or cloudy weather.

Anyone can get sunburned, but people with fair skin, light hair, or light eyes are more likely to burn. However, people with darker skin can also get sunburned and should still protect their skin.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Red, warm, and tender skin
• Pain or burning feeling on the skin
• Swelling of the affected area
• Blisters filled with fluid
• Peeling skin after a few days

Symptoms in children

• Same signs as adults, such as redness and pain
• May be fussy, clingy, or cry more than usual
• Fever, chills, or feeling generally unwell
• Skin may be very tender to the touch

Symptoms in older adults

• Sunburn may take longer to heal because skin is thinner and drier
• Higher risk of dehydration and, in severe cases, confusion
• Pain may be less noticeable but still serious
• Existing skin conditions or medicines may make sunburn worse

Causes

Main causes

• Sunlight containing ultraviolet (UV) rays – especially when the sun is strong, such as midday or in summer
• Artificial UV sources, like tanning beds or sunlamps
• UV rays reflecting off water, sand, snow, or concrete
• Skin being exposed long enough to become red and damaged

Risk factors

• Having fair skin, light hair, or light-colored eyes
• Living in sunny or high-altitude places
• Taking certain medicines that make skin more sensitive to light
• Spending time outdoors without sunscreen or protective clothing
• Having a history of sunburns, especially during childhood
• Using tanning beds

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you or your child have symptoms such as confusion, fainting, or a very high fever, call your local emergency number immediately.
• If there are signs of infection, like pus, increased swelling, or red streaks, seek urgent care the same day.
• If sunburn is extremely painful or covers a very large part of the body, get medical advice promptly.

Book a routine appointment if:

• If blisters appear but you are otherwise well, you can call your doctor for advice.
• If the sunburn is not healing after a week or seems to get worse, see a healthcare provider.
• If you have repeated sunburns and are worried about long-term skin damage, make an appointment to talk about skin checks.

Diagnosis

A doctor or nurse can usually diagnose sunburn by looking at your skin and asking about your recent sun exposure. They will check the size, colour, and any blisters or swelling.

Tests that may be done

• If the sunburn is severe and you are dehydrated, a doctor may check your pulse, blood pressure, and temperature.
• Blood tests are not usually needed but may be done if there are signs of heat illness or infection.
• In rare cases, a skin swab may be taken if an infection is suspected.

What to expect at your appointment

Your healthcare provider will examine the affected skin, ask about symptoms, and check how you feel overall. They will likely give you advice on home care, pain relief, and how to tell if things are getting better or worse. In most cases, no special tests are needed.

Treatment

Treatment for sunburn focuses on relieving discomfort, cooling the skin, keeping it moisturised, and helping the skin heal. There is no cure for sunburn; time and gentle care are the main treatments.

Self-care at home

• Take a cool bath or shower, or apply cool, damp cloths to the affected skin.
• Drink extra water or fluids to replace what you have lost and help your body recover.
• Apply a gentle, unscented moisturiser to the sunburned areas to soothe the skin.
• Leave any blisters intact – do not pop or pierce them.
• Stay out of the sun until the skin has fully healed.
• Wear loose, soft clothing to avoid rubbing the sunburn.
• Ask your pharmacist about safe pain relief options if the sunburn is uncomfortable.

Medical treatments

For severe sunburn, a healthcare provider may recommend prescription ointments or dressings to reduce pain and support healing. If there is dehydration, fluids may be given. If a blister becomes infected, the doctor may prescribe treatment, including possible antibiotics. The main aim is to keep you comfortable and prevent complications.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not used to treat sunburn. In very rare and severe cases, damage from an infected burn may need specialist wound care, but this is uncommon and not a typical treatment for sunburn.

Living with this condition

While recovering from sunburn, take it easy. Keep your skin cool, moisturised, and protected. Avoid touching or scratching peeling skin. You can take cool showers and gently pat the skin dry. Shield your skin from the sun with clothing and sunscreen as it heals.

Lifestyle tips

• Wear sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every day, even when cloudy.
• Wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and protective clothing when outdoors.
• Stay in the shade during the strongest sun hours, usually 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Avoid tanning beds and sunlamps.
• Check your skin regularly for any new or changing spots and tell your doctor if you notice anything unusual.

Diet and exercise

Drink plenty of fluids, especially water, to help your body recover. Eating a balanced diet with fruits and vegetables provides nutrients that support skin healing. You can exercise once you feel comfortable, but avoid activities that cause friction or sweating on sunburned skin, as this can be painful and delay healing.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Sunburn can be distressing and uncomfortable. You might feel upset about the pain or worry about long-term skin damage. These feelings are normal. If they interfere with your sleep or daily life, or if you feel very anxious, speak with a healthcare provider. They can offer reassurance and, if needed, refer you for further support.

Prevention

Yes. Most sunburns are preventable by protecting your skin from UV rays. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, apply it generously and reapply it every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating. Wear protective clothing, a hat, and sunglasses, and seek shade during peak sun hours.

Vaccines

There is no vaccine for sunburn. The best prevention is consistent sun protection and avoiding unnecessary UV exposure.

Screening programmes

If you have had sunburns in the past, especially in childhood, it is wise to check your skin regularly. Talk to your healthcare provider about how often you should have a full skin examination. This is a separate measure from treating sunburn but helps detect any issues early.

Complications

If left untreated

• Skin infection, especially if blisters break open and are not kept clean
• Scarring or changes in skin colour
• Premature ageing of the skin, such as wrinkles and dark spots
• Long-term increase in the risk of skin cancers, including melanoma

Long-term outlook

The good news is that most sunburns heal completely within a few days to two weeks, and the skin usually repairs itself. One sunburn is not a cause for alarm, but every sunburn contributes to the total amount of UV damage your skin receives over your lifetime. By protecting your skin from now on, you can greatly reduce your risk of serious complications later. If you have concerns about your skin, your doctor is there to help.

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