Sunburn treatment
Sunburn is a common skin issue especially in summer when your skin gets constant sun exposure. Speak to a registered online doctor within 15 minutes if you experience severe sunburn. 24/7 consultations available, Australia-wide.
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When to consult a doctor for sunburn?
Mild sunburn can usually be treated with topical creams, over-the-counter medications, hydration and rest. It is also important to avoid further sun exposure. If you experience severe sunburn or any of the following symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention to avoid further damage to your skin or the development of any other health conditions:
- Severe blistering: This indicates the burn is serious and needs medical help
- Pain and intense swelling: Severe pain, or intense swelling that doesn’t improve with home treatments
- Fever: If you develop a fever, chills, or feel weak or faint
- Nausea or headache: Persistent headache, nausea, or vomiting needs medical attention
- Seems infected: If any blistered areas become red, warm, or ooze pus
- Confusion: Severe heat exhaustion causes dizziness, confusion, or fainting
Please note: Mild sunburn can be managed through home remedies, taking the right medicines or via telehealth. For severe symptoms, dial 000 or visit the nearest hospital.
Get an online doctor’s consultation for treatment, antibiotics, or medical advice instantly.
Sunburn treatment options
How telehealth with an online doctor work for sunburn
Get medical advice from the comfort of your home for sunburns or any other skin conditions with telehealth. Get easy consultations with licensed online doctors in Australia once you choose the consultation type, complete an online form and payment.
Telehealth with an online doctor offers a myriad of benefits such as:
- Flexibility: Schedule an appointment when you are free without skipping work or school.
- After-hours consultations: Speak to a doctor after-hours, during weekends or on public holidays
- Instant scripts and more: Get access to medical certificates online, online scripts, and online referrals with the click of a button.
- Pharmacy delivery: Get medicines delivered to your location at your convenient time.
- Save time: Reduced travel or waiting at a clinic saves time and money for the patients
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About sunburn
Sunburn is the damage caused to your skin when it is exposed to too much sun or its ultraviolet radiation. In the harsh Australian sun, it will just take 15 minutes for a sunburn to occur if you are not cautious. This exposure damages skin cells and blood vessels, leading to redness, inflammation, pain, and, in severe cases, blistering and peeling. The skin’s natural response to UV damage is to increase melanin production, but when exposure exceeds this protective capability, sunburn occurs.
There are many risks associated with frequent and increased sunburns such as:
- Skin cancer
- Premature aging
- Wrinkles
- Melanoma
- Heat stroke
- Eye damage
Sunburn symptoms
Depending on the exposure to the skin and how sensitive the skin is, sunburn symptoms can range from mild redness to severe blistering. There is no cure for sunburn. Extra skin protection while going out in the harsh sun of summer is necessary.
Here are some common symptoms to look out for:
- Swelling and blistering
- Redness and warm to touch
- Pain, tenderness and discomfort in the burn area
- Itching, peeling of skin and dryness
- Heat stroke, fatigue, headaches and nausea
- Fever
- Confusion
- Severe dehydration
Medically reviewed by Dr. Ammar AL-ANI, MBChB, CCBST, AMC
Frequently asked questions
Can sunburn lead to skin cancer?
Repeated damage to the skin cells due to excessive sun exposure can increase the risk of skin cancer at any age. It could be particularly dangerous if this exposure happens at an early age. It is important to get regular skin checks to understand the condition of your skin and if there are any potential concerns to be addressed.
What foods help heal sunburn?
Certain foods can support the body’s natural healing process for sunburn. Your diet and hydration play an important role in healing sunburn or heat stroke. Nutrient-packed foods can work from the inside out, helping to soothe and restore sun-damaged skin.
- Foods rich in antioxidants, such as berries, cherries, and grapes
- Vitamin C-rich foods like oranges, kiwis, and strawberries
- Vitamin E, found in nuts, seeds, and spinach
- Omega-3 fatty acids in fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts
- Staying hydrated with water-rich foods like watermelon, cucumbers, and leafy greens
Can an online doctor help with sunburn if the GP near me is not available?
Yes, an online doctor can help you with sunburn when the GP near you is not available. With the advent of telehealth, Australians can now access a GP from any corner of the country without worrying about securing appointments or waiting times. During a telehealth consultation, a licensed doctor will provide medical advice after understanding your sunburn and any other symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhoea etc.
How does online prescription work for sunburn?
Online prescriptions for sunburn are simple and convenient. When you consult an online doctor, they’ll assess the severity of your sunburn by discussing your symptoms. If necessary, the doctor can prescribe topical treatments like anti-inflammatory gels, and in some cases, oral medications to manage pain and inflammation. Once prescribed, your medication is sent directly to your registered mobile number as an SMS. These instant scripts can be dispensed at any pharmacy, or you can get medicines delivered home using the pharmacy online. This telehealth option offers a quick, effective way to get relief without leaving home, especially helpful when sunburn is painful, or mobility is challenging.
Conditions telehealth consults are available for:
Sexual health
Morning after pill
Prostate health
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Chronic conditions
Cholesterol
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Don’t see what you’re looking for? Speak to a health practitioner in just 15 minutes. Please note that some conditions and prescriptions may not be available.
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