Blog • Medical Insights
Sunburn: Protecting Your Skin Throughout the Year
Sunburn is an inflammatory skin reaction caused by excessive ultraviolet exposure. Symptoms may appear within hours, while prevention and timely medical assessment are important throughout the year.
Possible symptoms of sunburn
- Pink or red, inflamed skin.
- Skin that feels warm or hot.
- Pain, tenderness or itching.
- Swelling.
- Small fluid-filled blisters.
- Headache, fever, nausea or fatigue in severe cases.
- Painful or gritty-feeling eyes.
Sunburn: course and recovery
Any exposed area can burn, including the ears, scalp and lips. Symptoms often develop within hours. The skin may peel after several days as it recovers, while more severe burns can take longer to heal.
When to see a doctor
Seek medical advice for large blisters, facial or genital blisters, severe swelling, signs of infection, worsening pain, headache, confusion, nausea, fever, chills, eye pain or changes in vision.
When urgent medical care is needed
Seek urgent care if sunburn is accompanied by fever above 39°C with vomiting, confusion, infection, dehydration, cold skin, dizziness or fainting.
Causes of sunburn
Sunburn results from excessive ultraviolet exposure from sunlight or artificial sources. UVA penetrates more deeply, while UVB acts more superficially and is strongly associated with sunburn. Snow, sand and water can reflect UV radiation.
Risk factors
Risk is higher with fair skin, previous sunburn, outdoor work, high altitude, reflective environments, unprotected UV exposure and medicines that increase photosensitivity.
Complications
Repeated intense sun exposure can contribute to photoageing, precancerous skin lesions and skin cancer.
Premature skin ageing
Repeated UV exposure can weaken connective tissue and contribute to wrinkles, dryness, visible vessels, freckles and areas of uneven pigmentation.
Precancerous skin lesions
Actinic keratoses are rough, scaly patches that often develop on sun-exposed areas and may progress to skin cancer.
Skin cancer
Excessive UV exposure can damage cellular DNA and increase skin-cancer risk. Seek medical assessment for a new or changing lesion, a changing mole or a sore that does not heal. Learn more about skin cancer.
Eye damage
Excessive UV exposure can affect the cornea and lens. Photokeratitis may cause painful or gritty-feeling eyes, while cumulative exposure can contribute to cataract formation.
Prevention
Limit exposure between 11:00 and 16:00, seek shade, avoid tanning beds, use broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher, reapply as directed and after swimming or sweating, wear protective clothing and UV-protective sunglasses, and ask a clinician or pharmacist about medicines that cause photosensitivity.
Useful information
Frequently asked questions
How long does sunburn last?
Symptoms often last around 3 to 7 days, depending on severity. More severe burns can take longer to recover.
What can help relieve sunburn?
Cool compresses, fragrance-free moisturiser, hydration and appropriate pain relief may help. Seek advice if symptoms are severe or worsening.
Can sunburn occur on a cloudy day?
Yes. UV radiation can pass through clouds and can also be reflected by water, sand or snow.
What SPF should sunscreen have?
Broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher is generally recommended, applied as directed and reapplied after swimming, sweating or at the stated interval.
What are signs of severe sunburn?
Large blisters, severe pain, swelling, fever, nausea or confusion require prompt medical assessment.
Who is at greater risk of sunburn?
People with fair skin, children, outdoor workers and those exposed at high altitude or near reflective surfaces may be at greater risk.
What are possible long-term effects?
Repeated UV exposure can contribute to photoageing, precancerous lesions and increased skin-cancer risk.
Would you like to discuss which option is suitable for you?
The right indication and a personalised treatment plan are determined after medical assessment.