Sunburn in Israel

Sunburn is a common and preventable condition affecting many tourists visiting Israel, especially during the spring and summer months. With long days on the beach, hiking in the desert, and walking tours under intense Middle Eastern sun, UV-related skin damage can occur quickly — even in those who rarely burn elsewhere.

What is sunburn? Sunburn is an acute inflammatory reaction of the skin to excessive ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight. The most harmful rays responsible for sunburn are called ultraviolet B (UVB) rays. These are short-wavelength rays that penetrate the outer layers of the skin, damaging cells and triggering inflammation. Symptoms like redness, warmth, and tenderness begin within 3–6 hours and peak at 12–24 hours. Severe sunburn can lead to blistering, fever, nausea, and dehydration.

Who is most at risk?

• People with fair skin, blue or green eyes, and blond or red hair

• Tourists from cooler climates not used to strong sun

• Hikers in elevated or desert areas (e.g., Dead Sea, Masada)

• Anyone outdoors between 10:00–16:00

• Those consuming alcohol while in the sun

Symptoms to look out for:

• Red, painful, hot skin

• Swelling and tightness

• Blistering in severe cases

• Peeling 3–7 days post-exposure

• Fever, headache, or dizziness

How to treat sunburn:

• Take cool showers or apply cold compresses

• Use aloe vera or fragrance-free moisturizers

• Pain relief: ibuprofen or paracetamol

• Do not pop blisters — if ruptured, clean gently and cover with sterile dressing

• Avoid further sun exposure until full healing

  

  aloe -vera gel

When to see a doctor in Tel Aviv:

Seek medical help if:

• Large areas of blistering or intense redness appear

• You feel weak, nauseous, or feverish

• You have trouble staying hydrated

• There are signs of infection (pus, spreading redness)

Prevention tips while traveling in Israel:

• Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30+ at least 15–30 minutes before sun exposure

• Reapply every 2 hours and after swimming or sweating

• Wear hats, sunglasses, and long-sleeved clothing

• Stay in shaded areas during midday

• Infants under 6 months should stay completely covered or shaded

Our clinic in Tel Aviv regularly treats travelers suffering from sunburn and can help you recover quickly and safely — so you can get back to enjoying your trip.