What should you know about patchy sunburn?

Different parts of the body may receive different exposure because of clothing, shade, hair, sunscreen application, or water reflection. Redness, heat, tenderness, and later peeling are typical features. Areas with stronger injury can form fluid-filled blisters. Patchiness does not show how deep the injury is by itself.

Repeated ultraviolet exposure contributes to sun-damaged skin and can make uneven tone more noticeable after the acute burn settles. A clinician can assess the skin surface and the extent of injury, especially when blisters or large tender areas are present.

Move out of direct sun, take cool showers or apply a cool damp cloth, and drink fluids normally. Apply a bland moisturiser or emollient therapy while the skin is still slightly damp. Do not break blisters or pull peeling skin. Wear loose clothing and avoid further ultraviolet exposure until the skin has healed. A clinician may consider topical corticosteroids for selected inflammatory symptoms, but do not use them on broken or infected skin without advice.

Seek prompt care for extensive blistering, severe swelling, intense pain, fever, vomiting, dizziness, confusion, fainting, eye involvement, or signs of dehydration. Get medical advice if redness keeps worsening, pus develops, or the burn affects an infant or a person who cannot maintain fluids.

Ask whether the injury needs examination, how to dress blisters safely, which moisturiser suits your skin, and when you may return to outdoor activities. Mention any medicines that increase sun sensitivity.