Skin burns in summer: how to protect yourself and what to do if it happens

Summer sun, barbecues, and outdoor activities create perfect conditions for relaxation, but they also increase the risk of getting a skin burn. During the warm season, our skin is more exposed and vulnerable to damage, which can leave burn marks on skin and require a long recovery period. In this article, we will explore the causes of summer burns, their potential dangers, and what to do if your skin does get burned.

Sources of burns in summer

Summer burns are not just the result of excessive tanning. There are many factors that can cause a skin burn. The most common sources of burns during the hot season include:

  • Sun exposure. Direct UV rays are especially dangerous between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. Without sunscreen, your skin can burn in just 15–20 minutes.
  • Hot surfaces. Sand, metal, car seats, and asphalt can cause a burn when they come into contact with the skin.
  • Grills and barbecues. Cooking over open flames often leads to burns on fingers, hands, and forearms.
  • Boiling liquids and oil. Cooking outdoors or at summer houses also poses risks — accidental burns from hot oil can leave noticeable burn marks on skin.

The dangers of burns during the summer

While summer burns may seem like a temporary inconvenience, they can actually be dangerous. Even a minor skin burn can weaken the skin’s protective barrier, increasing the risk of infection.

Potential consequences include:

  • Severe pain and swelling
  • Blisters and peeling
  • Dehydration (especially with large burns)
  • Pigmentation and scarring that leave a long-lasting burn mark on skin
  • Increased risk of skin diseases, including melanoma, due to frequent sunburn

Children and the elderly are especially vulnerable, as their skin is more sensitive to UV rays and hot surfaces.

What to do if your skin is burned

If you’ve gotten burned, it’s important to act quickly to ease the discomfort and reduce long-term effects:

  • Cool the skin. Apply a cool (not cold!) compress or run cool water over the affected area for 10–15 minutes.
  • Apply after-sun lotion. Products with aloe vera or panthenol help moisturize the skin and speed up healing.
  • Stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water helps your body recover after a skin burn.
  • Avoid the sun. Until the skin heals, stay out of the sun, especially during peak hours.
  • Don’t touch blisters. Popping them may cause infection and result in a more pronounced burn mark on skin.
  • In severe cases (blisters, fever, chills), always seek medical attention.

Why it’s important to be careful in summer

Summer brings opportunities to live life to the fullest yet requires specific attention to skin health. Protect your skin by using sunscreen with sufficient SPF while being cautious with hot objects and paying attention to your safety during every outdoor activity. When a burn happens you should not disregard its symptoms or postpone seeking medical attention. A proper treatment of even minor skin burns will result in noticeable burn marks on your skin. Protect your skin with SPF products while taking safety precautions to enjoy your summer.