Medically reviewed by William Truswell, MD Key Takeaways Sunburns typically resolve within three to five days, but very severe burns can take up to two weeks to heal, and any sunburn can cause lasting ... Most sunburns heal fine on their own. Consider seeking treatment for severe or repeated sunburn.
You're likely to first see your primary care provider. Before you go to your appointment, list the medications you're taking — including vitamins, herbs and nonprescription drugs. Some drugs increase your sensitivity to UV light. Sunburns often leave the skin tender to the touch, itchy, warm and painful.
severe sunburns, A sunburn may even cause skin to blister. When the sunburn is severe, a person may become ill with symptoms such as fever, dizziness, nausea, fast breathing and fast heartbeat. If any of these symptoms arise, you should seek medical care. A history of sunburn. One or more severe, blistering sunburns can increase your risk of melanoma.
severe sunburns, Exposure to UV light. The ultraviolet light, also called UV light, that comes from the sun and from tanning lights and beds increases the risk of skin cancer, including melanoma. Having many moles or moles that aren't typical. Just three episodes of severe sunburn before reaching the age of 20 more than double the risk of melanoma in adulthood ... Sunburns in childhood and adolescence may increase the risk of melanoma later in life. Skin cancer develops mainly on areas of the body most exposed to sunlight, including the scalp, face, lips, ears, neck, chest, arms, hands, legs and back.
The science of sunburns: Why they happen and how to treat them Drink extra water. This helps prevent dehydration. Talk with your health care team if your sunburn covers a large portion of your body with blisters, sunburn is accompanied by a high fever or severe pain, or severe sunburn doesn't begin to improve within a few days. To prevent future episodes of sunburn, apply sunscreen frequently and liberally.
