Sunburns: When They’re Serious and How Urgent Care Can Help

Sunburns are often dismissed as a temporary inconvenience, but severe sunburns can cause real damage to the skin and may require medical treatment, including care from urgent care or a primary care provider.

“Sunburns are just like any other burn,” says Jake Moore, DO, medical director of ProMedica Urgent Care. “If a sunburn is bad enough to blister, that’s considered a second-degree burn.”

Knowing when a sunburn needs treatment can help prevent serious skin damage or illness.

Why Severe Sunburns Are Dangerous

A sunburn happens when ultraviolet (UV) rays damage the skin. Mild sunburns may cause redness and tenderness, but severe sunburns can lead to blistering, swelling and intense pain.

“When you start blistering, that puts you at higher risk for infection, dehydration and scarring,” Dr. Moore explains.

Severe sunburns can also affect the body beyond the skin. As the body responds to inflammation, fluids shift toward damaged tissue, increasing the risk of dehydration — especially after long periods in the sun.

Symptoms That Require Medical Care for Sunburn

Certain sunburn symptoms are signs of a more serious injury and should be evaluated by a medical provider.

You should seek care if you experience:

• Blistering skin
• Severe swelling or worsening pain
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Confusion or disorientation

“If you’re blistering after a sunburn, you should see a doctor,” says Dr. Moore. “That’s a clear sign the burn is more serious.”

Urgent care is often a good option for sudden or severe sunburn symptoms that need same-day evaluation.

How Urgent Care Can Help Treat Severe Sunburns

Urgent care centers can assess the severity of a sunburn and help manage symptoms safely. Treatment may include:

• Evaluating blistered or damaged skin.
• Guidance on wound care and infection prevention.
• Managing pain and inflammation.
• Monitoring for signs of dehydration or heat-related illness.

“If a sunburn is severe enough to make you feel unwell, it’s worth getting evaluated,” Dr. Moore says.

Patients who already have a relationship with a primary care provider may also choose to follow up there, especially if symptoms are improving but concerns remain.

Safe At-Home Care for Mild Sunburns

For mild to moderate sunburns, early care can help reduce discomfort and prevent symptoms from worsening.

“A sunburn is a burn, so cooling it down is one of the first things you want to do,” Dr. Moore explains.

Helpful steps include:

• Getting out of the sun immediately
• Drinking plenty of water
• Using cool baths or cool compresses
• Applying aloe-based products
• Taking over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medicines, such as Tylenol or Ibuprofen for pain relief and swelling reduction

Dr. Moore advises avoiding heavy lotions right away. “They can trap heat in the skin and make the burn worse. Aloe is usually a better option,” he says.

Sun Poisoning and Heat-Related Symptoms

The term “sun poisoning” is often used to describe severe sunburn symptoms such as swelling, nausea and dizziness. While many cases can be managed with hydration and rest, some symptoms require medical evaluation.

“If someone is getting lightheaded, dizzy or passes out, they should be evaluated right away,” Dr. Moore says.

Nausea, vomiting and confusion can also be signs of heat-related illness and should not be ignored.

Prevent Sunburn With Sunscreen and Sun Protective Clothing

Preventing severe sunburn starts with proper sun protection. Dr. Moore recommends wearing sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.

“An SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UV rays, and SPF 50 blocks about 98%,” he explains. “There’s not a huge benefit beyond SPF 30.”

Apply sunscreen about 15 minutes before going outside and re-apply every two hours when you are outside.

Clothing also plays a role in sun safety. “Brighter clothing reflects more sunlight and helps prevent overheating,” Dr. Moore says. Lightweight, bright-colored clothing with long sleeves can offer added protection while keeping the body cooler.

Reduce the amount of time you’re in direct sunlight and seek shade whenever possible, especially during peak hours (10 a.m. – 4 p.m.).

Vitamin D and Sun Exposure

Many people worry about balancing sun safety with vitamin D needs. According to Dr. Moore, vitamin D supplementation is often a safer and more reliable option than prolonged sun exposure, especially in the Midwest. Remember to talk with your primary care provider before taking a new supplement.

“Most people in the Midwest have a vitamin D deficiency,” he says. “We’re not going to get enough sunlight year-round, so supplementation is usually recommended.”

Short periods of sun exposure may help some people, but sunscreen and protective measures are still important to protect your skin.

Supporting Safe Healing After Sunburn

Spending time in the sun should be enjoyable — not something that leads to lasting discomfort or health concerns. Recognizing when a sunburn is more than just redness can make a meaningful difference in recovery.

Care options like urgent care and primary care are available to help assess symptoms, manage pain and support healing. Seeking care when needed can help you recover safely and get back to enjoying time outdoors.