A member asked:

How long are my legs going to stay red from a bad sunburn its already been 4 days and they almost look purple in spots ?

2 doctors weighed in across 2 answers

Sun Burn: After sun exposure, skin may turn red in as little as 30 minutes but most often takes 2 to 6 hours. Pain is usually most extreme 6 to 48 hours after exposure. The burn continues to develop for 24 to 72 hours, occasionally followed by peeling skin in 3 to 8 days. Some peeling and itching may continue for several weeks as well as the redness.

Answered 7/2/2018

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Dr. Michael Miller answered

Specializes in Wound care

Simple Treatment: Sunburn is response of the tissues to injury from solar radiation. It is simply inflammation which means increase blood flow to the area to promote healing. Do not use ice as this can injure already injured skin. Cool water soaks can help as can taking anti-inflammation medicines like Motrin or advil (ibuprofen). Avoid any further damage as this can cause scarring . Good skin cream applied daily/gently helps.

Answered 5/28/2018

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