Sunburn
Introduction
Sunburn is skin damage caused by ultraviolet (UV) rays. It usually causes the skin to become red, sore, warm, tender and occasionally itchy for about a week.
The skin will normally start to flake and peel after a few days and will usually fully heal within seven days.
While sunburn is often short-lived and mild, it's important totryto avoid it, because it can increase your chances of developing serious health problems, such as skin cancer, in later life.
Its easy to underestimate your exposure to the sun when outside, as the redness doesnt usually develop for several hours. Breezes and getting wet (such as going in and out of the sea) may cool your skin, so you dont realise youre getting burnt.
You should always be aware of the risk of sunburn if youre outside in strong sun, and look out for your skin getting hot.
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 16 Jan 2017
Introduction
Sunburn is skin damage caused by ultraviolet (UV) rays. It usually causes the skin to become red, sore, warm, tender and occasionally itchy for about a week.
What to do if you're sunburnt
If you or your child has sunburn, you should get out of the sun as soon as possible head indoors or into a shady area. You can usually treat mild sunburn at home, although there are some circumstance
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 h
Who's at risk of sunburn?
Everyone who is exposed to UV light is at risk of getting sunburn, although some people are more vulnerable than others. You should take extra care when out in the sun if you: have pale, white or l
Dangers of UV rays
The short-term risks of sun exposure are sunburn and sun allergy . The longer-term risks (over decades) include: actinic (solar) keratoses rough and scaly pre-cancerous spots on the skin skin ca
Preventing sunburn
Skin should be protected from strong sunlight by covering up with suitable clothing, seeking shade and applying sunscreen. In the UK, the risk of getting sunburnt is highest from March to October, pa
Advice for babies and children
Children aged under six months should be kept out of direct strong sunlight. From March to October in the UK, children should: cover up with suitable clothing spend time in the shade (particularly
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