Health Info > Skin Conditions Published on : February 27, 2025

How to heal sunburn: GP-approved tips

Written by editorial staff writer at Hola. Medically reviewed by Dr Mark Mellor, FRACGP DCH MBChB BSc

Sunburn: that familiar aftermath of a fun day in the sun, where you end up resembling more like a tomato than a sun goddess. A recent survey between November 2023 and February 2024, found that 6.9 % of people aged 15 and over reported getting sunburnt in the previous week. While the initial glow of a sun-kissed tan may appear alluring, the consequence of excessive sun exposure can leave your skin feeling worn out. But don’t worry! Healing a sunburn doesn’t need to be excruciating. With proper treatment and GP-approved tips, you can calm your skin, accelerate recovery, and even avoid getting burned again. Let’s dive into how to pamper your sun-damaged skin with a blend of practical steps and some tender loving care!

Also read: Summer skin care tips for Aussies: healthy habits

Lifestyle and home remedies for sunburn

To effectively address sunburn in a home setting, consider implementing the following lifestyle adjustments and home remedies:

Cool compress: It is advisable to apply a cool, damp cloth to the affected regions to alleviate pain and minimise inflammation.
Aloe vera: The application of aloe vera gel or lotion can provide soothing relief from redness and swelling of the skin.
Hydration: Consuming an adequate amount of water is essential for rehydrating the body and facilitating the recovery of the skin.
Moisturisation: The use of a gentle, fragrance-free moisturiser is recommended to prevent the skin from becoming dry and peeling.
Avoid scratching: Individuals should refrain from scratching or peeling the skin to avoid exacerbating irritation and reducing the risk of infection.
Over-the-counter creams: Hydrocortisone cream may relieve pain and swelling; alternatively, anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen can be taken to manage discomfort

Treatment for severe sunburn

Severe sunburn may require more attention and care compared to mild burns, as it may result in blisters, significant pain, and possible complications. Ket treatments for severe sunburn include:

Seek medical help: If you get blisters, or experience severe pain, fever, or nausea, it’s essential to seek medical attention immediately. They may suggest stronger remedies or advise on how to handle the burn.
Cool the skin: Apple a cool compress or take a lukewarm bath to help alleviate heat from your skin. Avoid using ice or extremely cold water directly on the skin, as this may lead to more irritation.
Stay hydrated: Severe sunburn can lead to dehydration. It’s important to hydrate by drinking enough fluids, particularly water or electrolyte-rich drinks, to restore lost fluids and help your skin recover.
Avoid breaking blisters: If blisters develop, avoid breaking them. Blisters shield the skin beneath and guard against infection. If they break, clean the area softly and apply an antibiotic ointment to prevent infection.
Use over-the-counter remedies: You may use aloe vera gel or hydrocortisone cream to soothe the skin and alleviate inflammation. Hydrocortisone may also relieve discomfort and swelling, but it should only be used under medical supervision.
Pain relief: For significant pain, over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen may help reduce pain and swelling. Follow the recommended dosage carefully and consult a healthcare professional if you are uncertain about which medication to take.
Wear loose, soft clothes: Tight clothes may aggravate the skin. Choose relaxed, soft materials like cotton to reduce irritation and help your skin breathe.
Rest and protect: Minimise sun exposure as your skin recovers. It’s essential to wear protective clothing and remain in the shade while healing.

Sunburn prevention

Here are some suggestions for preventing sunburn:

Use sunscreen: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or above. Reapply every two hours or more frequently if you are swimming or sweating.
Seek shade: Avoid being in direct sunlight, especially between 10 am and 4 pm, when the UV rays are strongest.
Wear protective clothing: Use hats, sunglasses, long-sleeved clothes, and pants to guard against sun exposure.
Stay hydrated: Drink lots of water to maintain skin hydration and prevent dehydration caused by sun exposure.

By implementing these simple precautions, you can greatly lower the chances of sunburn and protect your skin from harmful UV rays.

Diagnosis

Sunburn is generally diagnosed through a physical examination and the symptoms a person reports. A healthcare professional will inspect the skin for signs such as swelling, redness, and blisters to determine the severity of the burn. Typically, sunburn is an easy diagnosis, but if the burn is intense or accompanied by symptoms like fever, chills, or dehydration, further medical help might be necessary. In extreme cases, healthcare providers may perform tests to exclude other conditions or monitor for complications such as infections.

Symptoms of sunburn

Symptoms of sunburn typically appear within a few hours after sun exposure and may include:

Redness: The skin exhibits a red and inflamed appearance, which may range from pink to bright red, contingent upon the severity of the condition.
Pain: Skin that has sustained sunburn may experience tenderness, soreness, or heightened sensitivity when touched.
Swelling: The region affected by sunburn may experience swelling, leading to discomfort.
Blisters: In instances of severe sunburn, blisters may develop, resulting in pain and the potential for rupture.
Peeling: As the healing process progresses, it is common for the skin to begin peeling or flaking.
Itching: Itchiness is a frequent symptom encountered during the recovery phase of sunburned skin.
Headache and fatigue: Sunburn may induce general fatigue, dizziness, and headaches, which can arise as a result of dehydration or inflammation.
Fever: In cases of significant severity, the individual may experience a mild fever as a physiological response to the burn.

Risks

Exposure to sunlight carries several risks, including skin damage, accelerated aging, and a heightened likelihood of developing skin cancer, which encompasses melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. Frequent occurrences of sunburn may compromise the skin's immune response, which can result in persistent dermatological conditions. In more severe instances, sunburn may lead to complications such as dehydration, blistering, and skin infections. Furthermore, the long-term effects of sunburn can manifest as skin discolouration, the formation of wrinkles, and a reduction in skin elasticity. Also read: Regular skin checks for Aussies: A lifesaving habit

How can I protect my child from sunburn?

To safeguard your child against sunburn, it is essential to implement the following measures:

Application of sunscreen: Broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher should be applied to all areas of exposed skin, even on overcast days. It is advisable to reapply the sunscreen every two hours, or more frequently in the event of swimming or sweating.
Seeking shade: It is recommended to keep your child in shaded areas, particularly during peak sunlight hours, which generally occur between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Appropriate attire: Ensure that your child is dressed in lightweight, long-sleeved clothing, in addition to hats and sunglasses that provide ultraviolet (UV) protection.
Avoidance of tanning beds: It is critical to refrain from exposing children to tanning beds or excessive amounts of sunlight.
Use of protective gear: Consider the utilisation of UV-protective clothing or swimwear, and supplement coverage with umbrellas or hats as necessary.

When to call a doctor?

It is advisable to contact a doctor if one experiences severe sunburn characterised by blistering or extensive areas of skin damage, or if intense pain persists. Furthermore, if the sunburn is associated with additional symptoms such as fever, chills, nausea, or dizziness, it is important to seek medical evaluation, as these manifestations may suggest the onset of heat exhaustion or heatstroke. In instances where the sunburn leads to dehydration, indicated by symptoms such as dry mouth, overwhelming thirst, frequent urination, or confusion, consultation with a healthcare professional is necessary. Additionally, if there is no improvement in the condition after several days or if any signs of infection emerge, including the presence of pus or escalating redness, it is prudent to obtain professional medical assistance. Children may require medical intervention for more severe cases of sunburn.

How to use sunscreen?

To utilise sunscreen effectively, it is important to adhere to the following guidelines

Select an appropriate sunscreen. One should choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen that has a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher, ensuring protection against both UVA and UVB rays.
Apply the sunscreen liberally. It is essential to cover all exposed areas of the skin thoroughly, including the ears, neck, and the backs of the hands.
Apply sunscreen before sun exposure. It is advisable to apply the product approximately 15 to 30 minutes before going outdoors to facilitate optimal absorption.
Reapplication is key. One should reapply the sunscreen every two hours, or more frequently in circumstances involving swimming, perspiration, or towel drying.
It is critical to note that sunscreen remains necessary even on cloudy days. UV rays can penetrate through clouds, requiring continued use of sunscreen regardless of overcast conditions.

Will telehealth appointments help with my sunburn?

Telehealth services present a convenient and accessible method for individuals to consult with a medical professional regarding sunburn from the comfort of their own homes. Through video or phone communication, a doctor can evaluate the severity of sunburn by examining symptoms such as redness, blistering, swelling, and pain. Furthermore, the physician may inquire about the patient's medical history, the duration of sun exposure, and any home remedies that have been attempted. This process enables the doctor to ascertain whether the sunburn is mild and can be treated effectively with over-the-counter solutions or if it necessitates further medical intervention. Hola Health facilitate the management of sunburn through the following services:

Telehealth appointments: Individuals can quickly connect with a doctor to discuss symptoms and receive personalised guidance for treatment.
Instant scripts: Patients can obtain prescriptions for medicated creams, pain relievers, or other necessary treatments, with the option of same-day pharmacy delivery.
Referrals to specialists: In instances where advanced medical care is required, patients can receive referrals for additional diagnostic tests or consultations with specialists.
Medical certificates: Should the sunburn impair the individual's ability to work or carry out daily activities, obtaining a medical certificate online for work or school can be accomplished with ease.

Preparing for your appointment

To effectively prepare for your telehealth appointment, please consider the following steps:

Verify the functionality of your technology. Confirm that your device, whether it is a phone, tablet, or computer, is adequately charged and possesses a stable internet connection. Additionally, conduct a test of the video and audio capabilities in advance of the appointment.
Assemble the necessary information. It is advisable to compile a list of your current medications, pertinent medical history, and any symptoms you are experiencing. Furthermore, maintaining a record of the onset of symptoms and any subsequent changes may be beneficial.
Establish an appropriate environment. Identify a quiet and well-lit space that offers privacy, allowing you to concentrate fully on the discussion during the appointment.
Prepare a list of questions. Document any inquiries or concerns you wish to address during the appointment to ensure that you do not overlook them.
Adhere to any specific instructions provided by the healthcare provider. If there are any pre-appointment requirements, such as a designated time or fasting, it is important to comply with those guidelines.

Healing a sunburn doesn’t have to be a nightmare. With a bit of cooling, hydration, and patience, your skin will return to its radiant self in no time. Just remember to treat your skin gently, avoid additional sun exposure, and allow it to heal naturally. A little love and attention can transform that fiery redness into a beautiful, golden glow!

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