Primary Care

Expert relief for peeling sunburn

Sunburn occurs when the skin is overexposed to the sun’s ultraviolet rays. A sunburn rash that peels is your body’s natural way of healing itself by shedding damaged skin. Although it’s a painful and uncomfortable condition, sunburn – a type of first-degree burn – is usually not an emergency. However, severe sunburn can cause infection and other serious complications.

If high fever, confusion or chills accompany a sunburn rash, seek emergency care at your nearest hospital. For nonemergency and after-hours care, Urgent Care Goshen Physicians is here seven days a week to treat minor injuries, including sunburn, in Goshen, IN. Visit our urgent care center at 2824 Elkhart Rd. or call (574) 535-1700 for an appointment.

Symptoms of a sunburn

A telltale sign of sunburn is red or pink skin. It may be painful, tender and feel hot.

Other symptoms include:

  • Blisters
  • Nausea
  • Headache
  • Fever

Red streaks or pus around blisters is a sign of an infection, which requires prompt medical attention. Our urgent care providers have the experience and tools to treat infection.

Preventing and treating peeling sunburn

Protecting your body from the sun’s rays is the best way to prevent sunburn, even when you’re not at the beach.

Follow these tips to stay healthy and safe in the sun:

  • Stay out of the sun during peak hours (10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.).
  • Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.
  • Apply sunscreen that contains SPF 30 every two hours.

Most sunburns can be soothed at home by applying aloe vera gel, taking pain relievers and not picking at the rash. When you need advance care for sunburn or have worrying symptoms, visit our urgent care center in Goshen. We can also connect you with a primary care provider to address all of your healthcare needs.

Urgent Care Goshen Physicians treats severe cases of sunburn in Goshen, IN, for the people of Elkhart County.