How common are skin blisters in sunburn?

Sunburn can cause fluid to collect between injured skin layers, creating bubbles that protect the tissue underneath. Do not use blistering as a way to judge the whole extent of a burn; the affected area and your symptoms also matter. Other injuries and skin conditions can blister, so an unusual pattern, severe pain, or blistering without a clear sun exposure deserves assessment.

Move out of the sun and cool the skin with a cool, damp cloth or a lukewarm shower. Drink fluids, wear loose clothing, and apply a gentle moisturiser when the skin is no longer hot and wet. Leave blisters intact, avoid rubbing or adhesive dressings, and never apply ice directly. Protect the area from further sun while it heals.

Get medical advice for extensive blistering, severe pain, dehydration symptoms, faintness, confusion, vomiting, or a high temperature. Urgent care is appropriate for burns involving the eyes, face, hands, feet, major joints, or genitals, and for breathing difficulty. Increasing redness, warmth, swelling, pus, or fever after the burn may indicate infection.

Ask how to protect the blisters, which pain relief is safe with your medical history, and whether the burn needs a dressing or examination. Mention the duration of sun exposure, the body areas involved, and any dizziness, nausea, or reduced urination.