How long does sunburn take to heal?

Mild sunburn typically heals within 3-5 days with peeling. Moderate to severe sunburn with blistering can take 1-2 weeks to fully heal. Avoiding further sun exposure during healing is important.

Can you get sunburned on a cloudy day?

Yes, up to 80% of UV rays can penetrate clouds. Sunburn can occur on overcast days, and UV exposure may be intensified near reflective surfaces such as water, sand, or snow.

Does sunburn increase cancer risk?

Yes, repeated sunburns significantly increase the risk of skin cancer, including melanoma. Even one blistering sunburn in childhood or adolescence doubles the lifetime risk of melanoma.

DermatologicalICD-10: L55Approximately one-third of US adults report getting sunburned each year

Sunburn

Also known as: Solar erythema, UV burn

Sunburn is skin damage caused by overexposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun or artificial sources such as tanning beds. It causes red, painful, and sometimes blistering skin that typically appears within hours of exposure. Repeated sunburns significantly increase the risk of skin cancer, premature aging, and other skin damage.

Symptoms

Red, warm, and tender skin

Swelling of the affected area

Pain that may worsen for 24-48 hours

Blistering in severe cases

Peeling skin as it heals

Headache, fever, and chills with severe sunburn

Nausea or fatigue in extreme cases

Causes

Overexposure to ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation from sunlight
Use of tanning beds or sunlamps
Reflected UV light from water, sand, or snow

Risk Factors

Fair skin, light hair, and light eyes
Outdoor activities during peak UV hours (10 AM - 4 PM)
Living at high altitude or near the equator
Certain medications that increase photosensitivity
Lack of sunscreen or protective clothing

Diagnosis

Visual examination of the skin
Assessment of exposure history and severity
Medical evaluation for severe sunburns with blistering or systemic symptoms

Treatment

Cool compresses or cool baths to reduce pain
Aloe vera gel or moisturizing lotion
Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen
Hydration with increased fluid intake
Topical corticosteroids for severe inflammation
Medical care for blistering sunburns or sun poisoning

Prevention

Applying broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen every two hours and after swimming
Wearing protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses
Seeking shade during peak UV hours
Avoiding tanning beds entirely

When to See a Doctor

Sunburn covering a large area of the body
Blisters over a significant area
Fever, chills, or confusion with severe sunburn
Signs of infection in sunburned skin

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Conditions

Skin Cancer

Cancer

Melanoma

Cancer

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