What should you know about sunburn legs?

The legs can burn after uncovered time outdoors, particularly when shorts, skirts, swimwear, or rolled-up clothing leave skin exposed. Redness and warmth may be followed by tenderness, tightness, peeling, or blisters. Rubbing from trousers, socks, or footwear can aggravate the area, while swelling may make movement uncomfortable. Repeated exposure can contribute to [Sun-Damaged Skin](/conditions/photoaging/), so a healing burn is a reason to improve protection rather than seek more colour.

Cool the legs with a lukewarm shower or cool damp cloth, then gently pat dry. Apply a bland fragrance-free moisturiser to intact skin and wear loose clothing that does not rub. Rest with the legs comfortably supported if swelling makes them feel heavy. Do not break blisters, scrub, or pull peeling skin. Keep the area covered from direct sun; when exposure is unavoidable, use protective clothing and sunscreen on uncovered skin. [Emollient Therapy](/treatments/medical-dermatology/emollient-therapy/) may help dryness and tightness.

Contact a clinician for extensive blistering, marked swelling, worsening pain, pus, spreading redness, fever, or difficulty walking. Urgent care is needed for fainting, confusion, repeated vomiting, inability to drink, or symptoms of serious heat illness. Ask before applying [Topical Corticosteroids](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-corticosteroids/) to blistered or broken skin.

Ask whether the burn depth or swelling needs examination, how to protect the legs under work or sports clothing, and which products are safe around blisters. Mention one-sided swelling, calf pain, drainage, fever, or symptoms that are not improving.