When to seek medical advice

You should contact your GP, attend an NHS walk-in centre , or call NHS 111 for advice if you feel unwell or have any concerns about your sunburn, particularly if you are burnt over a large area or have any of the more severe symptoms listed below.

You should also see your GP if a young child or baby has sunburn, as their skin is particularly fragile.

Signs of severe sunburn can include:

• blistering or swelling of the skin ( oedema )
• chills
• a high temperature (fever) of 38C (100.4F) or above,or 37.5C (99.5F) or above in children under five
• dizziness, headaches and feeling sick ( symptoms of heat exhaustion )

Your GP may recommend using hydrocortisone cream for a few days (this is also available over the counter at pharmacies) to reduce the inflammation of your skin.

Severe sunburn may require special burn cream and burn dressings from your GP or a nurse at your GP surgery. Very occasionally, hospital treatment may be needed.