What should you know about hyaluronic acid for sunburn?

Hyaluronic acid is a water-binding substance used in some moisturisers and gels. On mildly sun-irritated skin, a simple fragrance-free product may reduce the feeling of tightness by helping the outer skin hold moisture. It cannot reverse ultraviolet injury, prevent peeling or make blistered skin safe to handle.

Avoid confusing a topical moisturiser with an injectable product. Injection is not a treatment for sunburn, and injecting into inflamed or damaged skin increases the need for careful medical assessment. Sunburn can affect more than the visible redness, particularly when blisters or extensive tenderness are present.

Move out of the sun, take a cool shower or use a cool damp cloth, and drink fluids. Apply a bland moisturiser or aloe-based product while the skin is still slightly damp if it does not sting. Do not break blisters or peel loose skin. Wear loose clothing and keep the area protected from further sun exposure.

Stop a product that burns, causes a rash or makes redness spread. Avoid harsh scrubs, fragranced products and numbing products that can irritate damaged skin. A pharmacist or clinician can help you choose suitable pain relief if needed, especially if you have other health conditions or take regular medicine.

Get medical advice for large or numerous blisters, severe pain, spreading redness, pus, fever, vomiting, dizziness, confusion or signs of dehydration. Urgent care is appropriate for sunburn involving the eyes, face, hands or genitals, or for a child or vulnerable adult with a significant burn. Seek immediate help for confusion, fainting or breathing difficulty.

Ask whether the burn needs examination, which moisturiser is suitable for the affected area, how to care for blisters, and what symptoms should prompt a same-day review. Ask about prevention measures for future sun exposure.