Severe Sunburn: How to Recover and When to Seek Medical Attention
A sunburn that goes beyond mild redness, especially one that causes blistering, swelling, or flu-like symptoms, requires more than aloe and time. Here’s how to treat a severe sunburn safely and effectively, and how to know when it’s time to see a doctor.
1. Cool the Skin, Gently
Take short, cool (not cold) showers or apply a clean, damp cloth to the affected area several times a day. Avoid using ice or ice packs directly on the skin, as they can worsen the damage.
2. Moisturize Frequently
After gently patting your skin dry, apply a fragrance-free lotion or pure aloe vera gel while the skin is still slightly damp. Reapply often to relieve dryness and reduce peeling. Avoid products that contain alcohol, benzocaine, or fragrances, as these can further irritate the skin.
3. Stay Hydrated
Severe sunburn draws fluid to the surface of the skin and away from the rest of your body, which increases your risk of dehydration. Drink extra water for several days as your skin heals.
4. Manage Pain and Inflammation
Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help relieve pain and reduce swelling. A mild, over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream can help calm inflammation and itching but should only be used for a few days unless otherwise directed by a healthcare provider.
5. Leave Blisters Alone
Blisters are a sign of deeper skin damage. Do not pop or peel them. If a blister breaks on its own, gently clean the area with mild soap and water, apply an antibiotic ointment, and cover it with a clean, nonstick bandage.
6. Protect Healing Skin
Avoid additional sun exposure while your skin heals. Wear protective clothing, stay in the shade, and postpone outdoor activities if possible. Even after healing, the affected skin may remain more sensitive to sunlight for several weeks.
7. Know When to Call a Doctor
Seek medical attention if you experience large or widespread blisters, especially on the face, hands, or genitals, fever, chills, nausea, headache, or confusion, signs of infection such as increasing redness, swelling, pus, or red streaks or severe or worsening pain.
Prevention for the Future
Severe sunburn can increase your risk of long-term skin damage, premature aging, and skin cancer. To prevent future burns, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every day and reapply every two hours, or more often if swimming or sweating, avoid the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when UV rays are strongest and wear protective clothing, wide-brimmed hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses.
Final Thoughts
Severe sunburn is more than a temporary discomfort; it’s a signal that your skin has sustained significant damage. The right care can ease symptoms, prevent complications, and support the healing process. And next time, don’t forget the sunscreen.
