What should you know about feet sunburn?

Sunburn is an inflammatory response to ultraviolet exposure. The skin may feel warm, tender, tight or itchy and look red; later, peeling can occur. Blisters indicate a deeper injury and should be left intact. Swelling may make shoes uncomfortable, particularly when the tops of the feet were exposed.

Move out of the sun and cool the area with a clean, cool damp cloth or a brief lukewarm rinse. Apply a plain moisturiser or emollient while the skin is slightly damp, and drink fluids. Wear loose footwear, avoid rubbing and do not peel loose skin or puncture blisters. Cover the feet from sunlight until healed. Do not apply topical corticosteroids unless a clinician specifically recommends them for your situation.

Get medical advice for extensive blistering, severe swelling, worsening pain, pus, spreading redness or fever. Urgent assessment is sensible if you feel faint, confused, unusually weak or unable to keep fluids down. A clinician can also help when pain remains difficult to control or the burn affects walking.

Ask how deep the burn appears, which moisturiser is appropriate, whether any medicine is suitable for pain or inflammation, and how to protect blistered skin. Tell them about allergies, pregnancy, chronic illness and medicines you take.