The intense summer sun is a double-edged sword. While it brings warm days and outdoor adventures, it can also lead to painful sunburn. Most sunburns cause redness, peeling and discomfort, but sometimes they progress to sunburn bubbles (blisters) — fluid-filled bumps that are both unattractive and uncomfortable.

If they show up on your skin, don’t worry. Understanding what sunburn bubbles are and how to treat them can help you find relief and prevent complications.

What Are Sunburn Bubbles?

Sunburn blisters, medically termed second-degree sunburns, happen when ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun damage the deeper layers of your skin.

"Sunburn blisters are essentially radiation burns caused by UV rays,”explains Timothy Wuu, M.D., a family medicine physician. “These powerful UV rays penetrate deep into the skin, destroying healthy skin cells. The blisters are your body's attempt to heal by creating a fluid-filled pocket over the damaged area."

Symptoms of Sunburn Bubbles

Sunburn blisters can begin to show up just a few hours after sun exposure, but it can take up to a day or two for them to fully develop. Here are some common symptoms to watch for:

• Red, swollen, and tender skin
• Small, fluid-filled bumps (blisters)
• Pain or burning sensation at the sunburn site
• Possible chills or fever (in severe cases)
  
  

What to Do If You Have Sunburn Bubbles

If your sunburn blisters are mild, you can manage them at home with the following steps:

1. Avoid further sun exposure: Sunburn needs time to heal, and additional sun exposure can make the blisters worse and increase your risk of infection.

1. Cool the burn: Apply cool compresses or take a cool bath to soothe the pain and reduce inflammation. Dr. Wuu recommends cool compresses, such as a washcloth soaked in cold water, ice packs are also acceptable.

1. Moisturize: Keep the burned area hydrated with fragrance-free aloe vera gel or lotion. Petroleum jelly can also help prevent the blisters from drying and cracking.
   
   
2. Pain relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen 1000 mg every 6 hours as needed can help manage discomfort.
   
   
3. Avoid tight-fitting clothing: Opt for loose, breathable clothing to avoid irritation on the sunburned area.

One of the most important things you can do is avoid popping the sunburn bubbles — no matter how tempting it is. Popping blisters increases your risk of infection. Instead, let them heal naturally.

“Also, try to avoid picking at the scabs, which can lead to scarring,” advises Dr. Wuu. “Let the scabs fall off on their own.”

When to See a Doctor for Sunburn Bubbles

While most sunburn blisters heal on their own within a week or two, Dr. Wuu emphasizes certain scenarios warrant professional medical care.

"People often take sunburns too lightly," he says. "Sunburn bubbles are from a radiation burn, and in severe cases, it can lead to complications."

Consider these signs to watch out for:

• Large or widespread blisters (larger than a quarter)
• Severe pain or burning that doesn't improve with home care
• Signs of infection, such as pus drainage, redness increasing around the blisters or fever
• Sunburn blisters on your face or near sensitive areas like the eyes or genitals

Preventing Sunburn Bubbles: Your Best Defense

Sunburn blisters are a painful reminder of the importance of sun protection. Not only do they hurt while you have them, but they also increase your risk of developing skin cancer.

One study found that people who had at least five blistering sunburns between the ages of 15 and 20 had a higher likelihood of developing any of the three types of skin cancer, with the greatest risk being melanoma, the most dangerous form.

The exact risk increase varies depending on individual factors like skin type and overall sun exposure history. But the point still stands: Sunburn harms the skin in more ways than one. The best thing you can do for your skin is avoid sunburn altogether by:

• Seeking shade: Especially during peak sun hours (10 am to 4 pm), limit direct sun exposure and find shade whenever possible.
• Wearing sunscreen: Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher liberally and reapply every two hours, or more often if you’re swimming or sweating.
• Covering up with sun-protective clothing: Wear protective clothing, such as hats, sunglasses and long-sleeved shirts, to cover exposed skin.
• Staying hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day to help your body recover from sun exposure.

By following these tips and prioritizing sun safety, you can enjoy the outdoors while minimizing your risk of sunburn and its uncomfortable side effects.

If you have any concerns about your sunburn blisters or sun safety practices in general, turn to a dermatologist or your primary care provider. They can give you personalized advice and ensure a speedy recovery.

Next Steps & Resources

• Meet our source: Timothy Wuu, M.D.
• To make an appointment with Dr. Wuu or a doctor near you, call 800-822-8905 or visit our website.
• Learn more about our primary care services.

The material provided through HealthU is intended to be used as general information only and should not replace the advice of your physician. Always consult your physician for individual care.