Does sunburn usually swell?

Answer by  Christian9247 (5042)

Not always, sunburn will usually peel as the damaged skin is replaced beneath by a new freshly grown layer. In the case of rather bad sunburn, the skin will swell slightly as water is built up beneath the surface of the skin like a blister from a severe burn. However this will go down within a few days.

Answer by  Erynn (1651)

Sunburn does not *usually* swell, no. It will peel, and turn bright red. If it is exceptionally bad sunburn it will swell, but only a little. You should treat it as you would a more severe ordinary burn.

Answer by  junebug0720 (270)

A typical sunburn does have redness, swelling and eventually peeling. It can take three days to three weeks depending on the burn to heal. An oatmeal soak can help with the itching and swelling

Answer by  holdengal (693)

A really bad sunburn will swell and be warm to the touch. The swelling should go down in about 3 days. You can take an oral anti-inflammatory to help with the swelling and discomfort.