Sun blisters are fluid-filled sacs that signal the skin has sustained a significant injury from ultraviolet (UV) radiation, classifying the burn as a second-degree injury. You should not pop them. Interfering with the blister complicates the healing process and introduces risks.
Understanding Sun Blisters
Sun blisters form when intense UV radiation penetrates and damages the skin’s top layer (epidermis) and the layer beneath it (dermis). This cellular damage causes fluid (serum) from damaged blood vessels to collect beneath the detached epidermis, creating the blister. The fluid-filled sac acts as a natural, sterile dressing for the underlying tissue. It contains immune cells and proteins that promote healing, allowing the skin to repair itself without exposure to external contaminants.
Why Popping Creates Risk
Puncturing a sun blister destroys the sterile environment created for healing. Once broken, the delicate, raw skin beneath is exposed to bacteria, increasing the chance of infection. Infection can delay recovery and may require medical intervention, such as antibiotics.
Removing the protective blister roof also increases the risk of scarring. An intact blister helps the skin regenerate smoothly, while a broken one leaves the sensitive new tissue vulnerable to further trauma and uneven healing.
Safe Home Treatment
The primary goal of treating intact sun blisters at home is to keep them protected and comfortable.
- Apply a cool, damp compress to the area for about 10 minutes several times a day to reduce heat and inflammation.
- Take a cool bath or shower to soothe the pain and burning sensation.
- Apply soothing products like aloe vera gel or a moisturizing lotion, ensuring they are alcohol-free.
- If a blister is large or likely to rupture from friction, cover it loosely with a clean, non-stick gauze bandage.
- Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can manage discomfort and reduce swelling.
When to Seek Medical Help
Most sun blisters can be managed at home, but professional medical attention is necessary if the burn is severe or shows signs of infection. Seek care if the blistering covers a large area of the body or appears on sensitive locations like the face, hands, or genitals.
Signs of Infection
Infected blisters may show signs such as increasing redness spreading from the site, pus drainage, or a change in color to yellow or red.
Systemic Symptoms
Systemic symptoms suggest the body is struggling with the severity of the burn and warrant a doctor’s visit. These include:
- High fever or chills.
- Confusion.
- Intense pain not relieved by over-the-counter medication.
- Signs of dehydration, such as dizziness.
In these cases, the sunburn has progressed beyond a surface injury and may require prescription treatment or intravenous fluids.