What should I do if my sunburn is red and painful?

Feb 24, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Liu Wenmin

Introduction

Sunburn-related redness and pain are mainly caused by direct exposure, sensitive skin, drug reactions, dehydration, and solar dermatitis. Treatment typically includes local cold compresses, application of soothing creams, avoiding further sun exposure, and necessary medical interventions. In daily life, it is advisable to avoid going outdoors during periods of intense sunlight; if outdoor exposure is unavoidable, appropriate sun protection measures should be taken.

　　Sunburn-induced redness and pain are mainly caused by direct exposure, skin sensitivity, drug reactions, dehydration, and solar dermatitis. Symptoms can be alleviated through general treatments and medication. If abnormalities occur, prompt medical attention is recommended. Detailed analysis is as follows:

　　1. Direct exposure: In environments with strong sunlight, direct exposure of the skin without any sun protection measures can lead to sunburn symptoms such as redness and pain due to ultraviolet radiation directly affecting the skin. Immediate local cold compresses are recommended to reduce pain and swelling, along with applying creams containing soothing ingredients like aloe vera and green tea to aid skin recovery.

　　2. Skin sensitivity: Some individuals naturally have more sensitive skin with a lower tolerance for UV radiation, making them prone to severe sunburn reactions after sun exposure. In addition to cold compresses and applying soothing creams, it is advisable to enhance sun protection measures in daily life, such as using high SPF sunscreen, wearing hats, and wearing long-sleeved clothing.

　　3. Drug reaction: Certain medications may increase skin sensitivity to UV radiation after consumption, leading to sunburn symptoms following sun exposure, including some antibiotics, diuretics, and antidepressants. It is recommended to consult a physician, as dosage adjustments or medication changes may be necessary, along with enhanced sun protection measures.

　　4. Dehydration: Sunburn not only damages the skin but also causes loss of body fluids, especially in hot weather, where dehydration can worsen sunburn symptoms, accompanied by thirst, reduced urine output, dizziness, and fatigue. Timely hydration with water or electrolyte-containing beverages is recommended. Using skincare products containing moisturizing ingredients like glycerin and allantoin can help the skin retain moisture.

　　5. Solar dermatitis: Prolonged heavy physical labor or intense exercise under strong sunlight can lead to solar dermatitis, characterized by skin redness, stinging pain, and in severe cases, blisters or large bullae. Protective measures such as wide-brimmed hats, umbrellas, and sunscreen should be used to protect the skin from further damage. It is recommended to use medications such as boric acid ointment, zinc oxide ointment, and compound menthol ointment under a doctor's guidance for treatment.

　　In daily life, avoid going outdoors during peak sunlight hours. If outdoor exposure is unavoidable, take sun protection measures such as applying sunscreen, wearing a hat, and wearing long-sleeved clothing.

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What should I do if white blisters appear on the skin after sunburn?

After sunburn causes white blisters on the skin, manage it by cooling and soothing the area with cold compresses, protecting the blisters from breaking, avoiding further irritation or injury, performing gentle local care, and replenishing fluids and nutrients to prevent infection and worsening damage. If the blisters become numerous and spread, if pain is severe, or if fever, redness, and swelling occur, seek medical attention promptly. Wrap an ice pack or a cloth soaked in cold water with a clean towel and apply it as a cold compress to the affected skin.

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Are sunburns the same as burns?

If viewed from the causes and injury mechanisms, sunburn is a photochemical injury caused by excessive ultraviolet radiation to the skin, primarily affecting the epidermis, with symptoms such as redness, heat sensation, and peeling; whereas burns are thermal or chemical injuries caused by high temperatures (such as flames or hot water) or chemical substances, which can involve the epidermis, dermis, and even subcutaneous tissues, and in severe cases may present blisters and eschar formation. The two conditions are fundamentally different.

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Can geranium be used for sunburn?

Geranium can be used after sunburn, but attention should be paid to its indications and contraindications. The active ingredients in geranium have anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce the inflammatory response caused by sunburn, promoting skin repair. For mild sunburn, such as redness, slight pain, and warmth of the skin, geranium ointment or extract can be applied to the affected area as directed by a healthcare provider to alleviate discomfort and accelerate skin recovery.