Condition guide
Sunburn
Red, painful sunburnt skin? Find relief from sunburn pain and learn how to care for your skin while it heals.
Find the right medicineTreatment and relief options
- Cool compresses or cool baths for relief
- Moisturiser or aloe vera gel to soothe skin
- Paracetamol or ibuprofen for pain
- Stay hydrated - drink extra water
- Avoid further sun exposure until healed
When to get help
- Severe blistering over large area
- Fever, chills, or severe headache
- Confusion, seizures or collapse in the heat (possible heatstroke): call Triple Zero (000)
- Signs of infection (pus, increasing pain)
- Sunburn in infant or young child
Good to know
Sunburn or heat illness?
Sunburn is skin damage from ultraviolet (UV) radiation: red, hot, painful or itchy skin that may blister and later peel. Redness can start within hours but peaks 12 to 24 hours after exposure, so a burn often looks worse the next day. If your reaction doesn't look like a burn, see rash and itchy skin. See a doctor or emergency department for extensive blistering, headache, nausea or vomiting, fever or dizziness. Confusion, seizures or loss of consciousness in the heat may be heatstroke: call Triple Zero (000). Paracetamol and ibuprofen don't lower body temperature in heatstroke and shouldn't be given.
Australian UV and after-sun care
UV isn't linked to temperature: it can be just as damaging on cool or cloudy days, and snow, water and sand add to exposure. Use sun protection during the daily sun protection times, when UV is forecast to reach 3 or higher; the SunSmart app and Bureau of Meteorology list them. What many people call windburn is actually sunburn. While your skin heals, avoid soap and ask a pharmacist about soothing sprays, which avoid rubbing tender skin. Keep babies under 12 months out of direct sun when UV is 3 or higher, relying on shade, clothing and hats; widespread sunscreen use under 6 months isn't recommended.
Sources: healthdirect — Sunburn and sun protection; Better Health Channel — Sunburn; healthdirect — Heatstroke
Frequently asked questions
Mild: 3-5 days. Moderate: 1 week. Severe: 2 weeks. Peeling is normal healing process.
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Medical disclaimer
This information is general in nature and isn’t a substitute for professional medical advice. Always read the label and follow the directions for use. Talk to your pharmacist or doctor about what’s right for you.