Products to help sunburn from Watsons

Sunburn is an inflammatory injury caused by ultraviolet exposure. Redness, warmth, tenderness, and later peeling can occur as the damaged surface sheds. Blisters indicate a deeper burn and should not be deliberately opened. A product sold for soothing skin may support comfort, but it cannot undo the underlying ultraviolet injury.

Take a cool shower or apply a cool damp cloth, avoiding ice directly on the skin. Pat dry and apply a fragrance-free emollient while the skin is slightly damp. Wear loose clothing, avoid more sun, and do not pick peeling skin or pop blisters. Avoid fragranced products and harsh exfoliants while the area is tender. A clinician can advise whether a topical corticosteroid is appropriate; do not use one on broken or infected skin unless instructed.

Seek medical care for extensive blistering, severe pain, fever, chills, vomiting, dizziness, confusion, or signs of dehydration. Prompt assessment is also sensible for burns involving the eyes, lips, face, hands, or genitals, or for increasing redness, pus, and worsening pain. A baby or young child with significant sunburn should be assessed urgently.

Is this burn superficial or blistering? Which emollient is suitable for my skin? Should I use a topical corticosteroid, and what symptoms would suggest infection?