What should you know about worst sunburn?

Sunburn is skin injury from ultraviolet exposure. More serious injury may produce extensive redness, tender [Skin Blisters](/symptoms/skin-blisters/), swelling, and later [Peeling Skin](/symptoms/skin-peeling/). Chills, headache, nausea, dizziness, weakness, or confusion can signal heat illness or dehydration rather than a local skin reaction alone. Repeated ultraviolet injury contributes to [Sun-Damaged Skin](/conditions/photoaging/).

Pain and redness can become more noticeable after the exposure ends. Children, older adults, and people who cannot drink normally may need earlier assessment when symptoms are pronounced.

Move out of the sun and cool the skin with a cool bath or clean, cool compresses. Drink fluids, rest, and wear loose clothing. Do not pop blisters or pull peeling skin. A bland moisturizer or [Emollient Therapy](/treatments/medical-dermatology/emollient-therapy/) can reduce dryness; avoid products that sting on broken skin. Pain relief may be suitable for some people, but check the label and ask a pharmacist if you have medical conditions or take other medicines. Further sun exposure should be avoided while healing.

Seek prompt medical advice for widespread blistering, severe swelling, escalating pain, fever, vomiting, faintness, confusion, severe headache, or inability to keep fluids down. Get urgent help for breathing difficulty, collapse, or marked drowsiness. A clinician may assess broken skin for infection and decide whether a treatment such as [Topical Corticosteroids](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-corticosteroids/) is appropriate; do not start prescription treatment without advice.

How extensive is the burn? Do the blisters need a dressing? Which moisturizer and pain medicine suit me? How can I protect the area while it heals, and which symptoms should trigger urgent review?