What is Sun Poisoning and How Do You Treat It?

You know that delightful summer glow everyone seems to chase? What if you got a little more “lobster” than “sun-kissed” this weekend? If your sunburn left you feeling unwell, red, and suddenly searching “what is sun poisoning,” you’re not alone (and you’re in the right place).

This blog explains exactly what sun poisoning is, what it looks like, and how it’s different from a typical sunburn. You’ll learn the symptoms, the best ways to treat it, and get a beach bag’s worth of tips to prevent it next time. We’ll even sneak in some advice on how to apply self tanner or self tanning lotion if you’re ready to skip the burn entirely (trust us, your skin will thank you).

What Causes Sun Poisoning

First, some myth-busting. “Sun poisoning” isn’t a rare tropical disease. It’s a severe sunburn that can trigger an allergic reaction and sometimes even systemic symptoms.

Sun poisoning is caused by:

• Spending too much time exposed to UV rays, especially without protection.
• Having fair skin, freckles, red or blond hair, or a family history of skin sensitivity.
• Vacationing somewhere the sun is extra intense (tropical, high-altitude, or snow-reflective environments).
• Not reapplying that SPF 50+ every two hours (yes, even if it’s cloudy).

When UV radiation overwhelms your skin’s natural defenses, it results in deeper, nastier damage than a basic sunburn. For some, this triggers a phototoxic or photoallergic reaction that can leave your skin feeling pretty awful.

Symptoms of Sun Poisoning

You know that feeling when you think, “Whoa, I may have actually fried myself”? Well, you might have!

Here are the classic sun poisoning symptoms:

• Severe redness and inflammation (think fire engine red)
• Intense pain or skin that feels hot to the touch
• Blistering or oozing skin
• Swelling of the face or limbs
• Headache, dizziness, or feeling faint
• Nausea, vomiting, or dehydration
• Fever or chills
• Rapid heartbeat

If you’re experiencing just redness and pain, it’s probably a bad sunburn. But when you have bonus symptoms like nausea, chills, or blisters, you might be dealing with sun poisoning. Remember, your body is saying, “I’ve had enough.”

When to See a Doctor

If blisters cover a large area, you have a high fever, or you’re showing signs of severe dehydration, get medical help quickly. Sun poisoning can lead to complications like infection or heatstroke, and it’s always better to be safe.

Sunburn Versus Sun Poisoning

It’s the battle of the burns! Here’s how to tell what you’re up against:

Regular Sunburn

• Redness and pain show up a few hours after sun.
• Skin feels warm, tender, and tight.
• Peeling often happens a few days later.
• Usually goes away with over-the-counter care.

Sun Poisoning

• Severe redness almost right away.
• Blisters and oozing.
• Swelling, headache, chills, or even a fever.
• You may feel exhausted, dizzy, or sick to your stomach.
• Often needs more than just aloe—not to mention TLC

Think of sun poisoning as the overachieving cousin of sunburn. It doesn’t just want your skin’s attention; it wants your whole system involved. If you’re searching “sunburn versus sun poisoning,” and your symptoms sound more like the latter, don’t tough it out alone.

Treatment for Sun Poisoning

If you’ve crossed over into sun poisoning, your skin is waving a white flag. Here’s how to treat it:

Step 1: Hydrate Like You Mean It

Sun poisoning dries you out in a hurry. Drink plenty of water, coconut water, or electrolyte drinks.

Step 2: Get Out of the Sun

Find shade or go indoors. Your skin needs a break.

Step 3: Soothe Your Skin

• Cool compresses or a gentle, lukewarm shower can feel great.
• Avoid soap that’s too harsh or heavily scented.
• Apply pure aloe vera gel, Solarcaine, or an over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream to blistered areas.
• Don’t pop blisters.

Step 4: Watch for Red Flags

If you develop chills, nausea, confusion, or a fever above 101°F, seek medical care. Your doctor might prescribe oral steroids, IV fluids, or even antibiotics if infection threatens.

Step 5: Give Your Skin a Second Chance

Your skin is not the enemy! Keep it moisturized with a gentle, fragrance-free lotion. Resist the urge to exfoliate or scrub (and definitely put down the self tanner for a while until your skin is fully healed).

Sunburn Prevention (Because, Ouch)

The best way to treat sun poisoning? Prevent it altogether! Here are practical tips:

Commit To Sunscreen

• Lather on a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher, even on cloudy days.
• Reapply every two hours, and after swimming or sweating.
• Don’t forget sneaky spots like your ears, the back of your neck, and the top of your feet.

Dress for Sun Success

• Wear UV-protective clothing, a stylish wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses.
• Cover up between 10am and 4pm, when the sun is most intense.

Know Your Limits

• Monitor the UV index in your area (most weather apps have this).
• If you’re fair or pale-skinned, start with shorter stretches outdoors and build up your “sun stamina.”

The Tint Without the Trauma

Dreaming of a golden glow but want to protect your skin? Skip the risk and use self tanner or self tanning lotion. Here’s the quick guide:

• Exfoliate your skin gently (safely, no sandpaper needed!) 24 hrs before applying.
• Choose a self tanning lotion that’s right for your skin.
• Apply it with a mitt in circular motions, blending well.
• Skip ankles, elbows, and knees until the end (they get dark fast).
• Wash your hands immediately to prevent tinting your hands and palms.

Shield Your Shine, Spare the Burn

Sun poisoning is very painful. If you think you’re experiencing anything more severe than a sunburn, react quickly and give your skin some serious tender loving care. Whether you’re a sun seeker, accidental burner, or a faux-glow pro, there’s always a way to enjoy the sunshine without risking your health.

Need a sidekick for your next outdoor adventure? Browse our sun safe catalog for our favorite sunscreen picks, fashionable hats, designer SPF make-up, and more. Remember, loving the sun means protecting your skin from it, too. Shield your shine, friends!