What should you know about restoring skin after sunburn?

Sunburn is an ultraviolet injury that can cause warmth, redness, tenderness and later peeling. Peeling is the body's way of shedding damaged surface cells; pulling at loose skin can expose more sensitive tissue. Blisters indicate a deeper injury and should be handled gently. Repeated sun exposure can also contribute to longer-term sun-damaged skin.

The visible colour may settle before sensitivity has fully eased. Healing skin is more vulnerable to irritation, so fragranced products, scrubs and deliberate tanning can prolong discomfort.

Move out of direct sun, use cool damp compresses or a cool shower, and drink fluids. Apply a bland moisturiser or emollient therapy to intact skin while it is slightly damp. Wear loose clothing and do not break blisters. Use broad-spectrum sun protection and shade once you must go outside; avoid applying steroid creams or numbing products unless a clinician recommends them for your situation.

Seek medical advice for extensive blistering, severe pain, fever, vomiting, dizziness, confusion, fainting, signs of dehydration or spreading redness and drainage. A child, older adult or person with a serious medical condition may need earlier assessment. Get urgent help for breathing difficulty, confusion or collapse.

Ask whether the burn needs examination, which moisturiser is suitable for broken or intact skin, how to manage blisters, and when you can resume usual products. Ask how to prevent another burn and whether lingering redness or pigment change needs review.