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Sunburn

Dr Lynn Thomas, OStJ, BSc, MB.BS, MA, FRCPClinically reviewed: 28/04/2025

Sunburn is caused by over exposure to the sun, a sunlamp, or a sunbed.

What is sunburn?

Whether you’re out in the park or relaxing on the beach, it’s important to avoid too much exposure to the sun by covering up with clothing, staying in the shade, and applying high factor sunscreen. Most sunburns are mild, but in severe cases the skin can become damaged, turn lobster red, and blister. People with sunburn may also develop heat exhaustion.

Signs and symptoms

What to look for:

  1. reddened skin

  2. pain in the area of the burn

  3. blistering (in some cases)

What to do

  1. 1

    Cover the skin with light clothing and move them out of the sun.

  2. 2

    Give cold water to sip.

  3. 3

    Cool the skin with cool water for 10 minutes.

  4. 4

    Apply calamine lotion to soothe mild sunburn.

  5. 5

    If there are blisters, advise that they see a healthcare professional.

  6. 6

    Treat any symptoms of heat exhaustion or heatstroke and get medical help.

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