Australia records some of the highest ultraviolet (UV) radiation levels globally. Our climate, outdoor lifestyle, and geographic position make sunburn a significant health risk year-round. UV radiation can damage skin cells in minutes, even on cool or cloudy days.
Understanding the dangers, prevention methods, and correct first-aid response is essential for protecting yourself and others.
What Causes Sunburn
Sunburn occurs when UV radiation penetrates the skin and damages cells, causing inflammation. This leads to redness, heat, tenderness, and in serious cases, blistering.
Key facts:
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UVB rays cause surface burns and direct skin damage
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UVA rays penetrate deeper and contribute to long-term skin aging and cancer risk
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UV levels in Australia can cause visible skin damage in 10–15 minutes during peak conditions
UV exposure risks increase near water, sand, concrete, boats, and reflective surfaces.
Health Risks of Sunburn
Short-term effects
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Red, painful, hot skin
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Swelling or blistering
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Peeling skin
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Headache, nausea, fatigue in severe cases
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Dehydration
Long-term effects
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Permanent skin damage
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Premature ageing and pigmentation changes
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Significantly increased risk of skin cancer
Australia has one of the highest melanoma rates in the world. Repeated sunburns — especially in childhood — greatly increase lifetime cancer risk.
First Aid Treatment for Sunburn
Immediate steps
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Move out of the sun.
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Cool the skin using cool running water or a cool shower for 10–20 minutes.
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Apply a cool compress or aloe vera/after-sun gel.
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Drink water to stay hydrated.
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Once the skin has cooled, apply a gentle, non-perfumed moisturiser.
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Avoid further sun exposure until skin heals.
Blistering or more serious burns
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Do not pop blisters.
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Cover broken blisters with a sterile non-stick dressing.
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Continue cooling and hydration.
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Monitor for signs of heat stress or infection.
Avoid
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Applying ice directly to skin
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Oily or petroleum-based products on hot skin
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Peeling or picking damaged skin
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Home remedies that are not medically supported
Pain relief
Seek guidance from a pharmacist or medical professional regarding suitable pain-relief options if needed. Do not provide medication advice unless qualified to do so.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Urgent medical care is recommended if:
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A large area of the body is burned
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Severe blistering is present
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The person has dizziness, confusion, vomiting, or fever
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A baby or young child has sunburn
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Signs of infection appear (pus, increasing redness, swelling, fever)
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Pain does not improve or worsens
Prevention: Sun Safety in Australia
Prevention is the most effective protection.
Follow the nationally recognised Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek, Slide approach:
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Slip on sun-protective clothing
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Slop on SPF 50+ broad-spectrum sunscreen and reapply every two hours
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Slap on a broad-brimmed hat
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Seek shade
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Slide on UV-protective sunglasses
Additional advice:
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Check the UV Index; protection is recommended when UV is 3 or higher
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Avoid peak UV times (10 am – 3 pm) where possible
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Remember UV damage occurs even on cloudy or cooler days
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Take extra precaution around water, boats, snow, and reflective surfaces
Outdoor Workplaces
UV radiation is recognised as a workplace hazard in Australia. Outdoor workers, including trades, agriculture, marine, emergency services, recreation, and construction, require UV protection measures as part of WHS obligations. PPE, shade planning, and sunscreen availability are standard risk controls.
Final Notes
Sunburn causes permanent skin damage with every exposure. Prevention, early cooling, hydration, and correct wound care help reduce complications. Seek professional medical care for severe or extensive burns, symptoms of heat illness, or burns in children.