What should you know about really bad sun burn?

Sunburn is an inflammatory response to ultraviolet injury. Skin may become hot, red, tender, swollen, and later peel; severe burns can produce Skin Blisters. Redness may be easiest to see on lighter skin, while darker skin may feel hot, sore, tight, or change tone without obvious redness. Extensive blistering, severe pain, headache, nausea, dizziness, fever, chills, or weakness can indicate a more serious burn or heat illness. Repeated ultraviolet injury contributes to Sun-Damaged Skin over time.

Leave the sun, take a cool shower or use cool damp cloths, and pat dry. Drink fluids, wear loose soft clothing, and avoid further sun exposure until the skin has healed. Do not break blisters or pull peeling skin. A bland moisturiser may ease dryness; see Emollient Therapy for barrier-support options. Avoid fragranced products and numbing sprays that irritate damaged skin. A clinician may advise Topical Corticosteroids for selected inflammation, depending on the burn.

Get urgent medical help for confusion, fainting, severe dehydration, repeated vomiting, trouble breathing, or a very high temperature. Arrange prompt assessment for extensive blisters, severe swelling, signs of infection, eye involvement, or burns affecting the face, hands, feet, genitals, or major joints. Do not apply ice directly or use home remedies that stick to the skin.

Ask how to dress open blisters, which pain relief is suitable for you, and when it is safe to return to sun exposure. Mention medicines that increase sun sensitivity.