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'I Thought I Just Had A Rash - But A Parasite Was Living Inside My Leg And Laying Eggs'

Marystella Gomez was diagnosed with a parasite known as hookworm, leading to a skin condition called cutaneous larva migrans which started out as a simple itchy rash after a holiday

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Woman discovers parasite living in leg

A woman was left absolutely horrified to find a parasite growing in her leg and laying eggs at night.

Marystella Gomez, 27, noticed small pimples on her leg after a trip to the beach in Colombia.

She thought nothing of it, but soon found the spots turned into a rash that kept getting bigger.

She went to the doctor to investigate, who said it was likely caused by an allergic reaction or possible even a fungal infection.

But the truth turned out to be far more harrowing...

"I started scratching my leg more and more," Marystella said.

"Strangely, I only scratched my leg a lot at night and I didn't understand why.

She noticed small pimples on her leg after a trip the beach in Colombia (

Image:

Jam Press Vid/@doscabraslocas) The rash was later revealed to be caused by hookworm infection (

Image:

Jam Press Vid/@doscabraslocas)

"I went to the emergency room and they told me that they had a fungus or an allergy and they gave me medicine. The medicine didn't work and my leg got worse and worse.

"A couple of days after going to the emergency room I had an appointment with the dermatologist. It was then, the doctor told me that I had a parasite."

It was later revealed that the rash was caused by a parasite known as a hookworm infection, leading to a skin condition called cutaneous larva migrans.

Hookworm larva can burrow into human skin and live there for several weeks, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

She caught the infection by simply sunbathing on a beach (

Image:

Jam Press Vid/@doscabraslocas)

She told NeedToKnow.Co.Uk: "Many people take their dogs and cats to the beach and they poop.

"The owners don't pick it up and then it stays in the sand and you sit or step on the sand and the parasite sticks to you.

"The parasite sticks by direct contact with the skin.

"The dermatologist sent me medication to kill the parasite and it went away.

"He also told me that the reason I scratch so much at night is because parasites lay eggs at night.

"The fact is that the dermatologist saved me."

Hookworms are spread through infected animal faeces (

Image:

Jam Press Vid/@doscabraslocas)

Hookworms tend to be spread through animal faeces, added the CDC.

When humans come into contact with it, the larva penetrate the skin - usually in the foot - and then make their way through the top layer of skin.

It leaves a characteristic rash on the skin that looks similar to the shape of worms.

In rare cases, the hookworms can even infect the intestines, leading to stomach pain, diarrhoea, and general discomfort.

Social media users were left horrified by the story with hundreds of comments left on Marystella's TikTok.

One person said: "T r a u m a." [sic]

Xelena commented: "I see a lot of people saying that the same thing happened to them in Coveñas, that's not where I go."

Angie added: "Nooo new fear deactivated, one can no longer even touch sand." [sic]

"Thank goodness I'm not going to the beach," wrote one TikToker.

"Thanks for telling us, I hope you are fully recovered," added another follower.

"But it's almost impossible to walk on the beach without wearing sandals", said Andro.

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These Pictures Will Help You Identify The Most Common Skin Rashes

Pictures to Help You ID That Skin RashGetty Images

In our quest to maintain healthy skin, a few bumps in the road (or on our complexion) are inevitable. And while nobody likes to deal with bumpy, red, or itchy skin—rashes happen. Combing through pictures of skin rashes can help identify exactly what you're dealing with and help you determine the best treatment.

"A rash is essentially inflammation in the skin that can be caused by either an external exposure or an internal factor," says Joshua Zeichner, M.D., director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. Basically, a rash is your skin's way of telling you something is up, whether you've been exposed to an irritant or you have an underlying medical condition.

The unifying feature of all rashes is inflammation, Dr. Zeichner explains. That inflammation could be minor or could greatly impact the color, texture, or feeling of your skin—it all depends on the type and severity of your rash. (Note: Some of the chronic skin conditions listed below, like acne and rosacea, might not be considered rashes by all dermatologists, but their symptoms and treatments are similar enough to other rashes to include them in this list.)

What causes skin rashes?

When it comes to the root causes of rashes, they tend to fall into two main categories: outside-in and inside-out, explains Dr. Zeichner. A few distinct features make their identification and treatment unique.

Outside-in rashes, like contact dermatitis and ringworm, are due to direct exposure to an outside irritant, allergen, or organism. Irritants (substances like household cleaners and chemicals that can affect anyone) and allergens (substances like latex and poison ivy that only affect those with specific allergies) can both trigger rashes such as contact dermatitis. Meanwhile, organisms living on the skin can cause conditions like ringworm and scabies.

Inside-out rashes stem from genetics, allergies, or infections. Genetic rashes, like eczema or psoriasis, appear because your skin or immune system is triggered to produce them. Allergic rashes, like a drug rash, occur when you ingest an allergen, including certain foods, such as peanut allergies, or medications. And viral infections, like coronavirus, can also result in rashes.

Many of these rashes can be resolved with proper treatment, except in the case of inside-out rashes caused by genetics. "Our bodies are genetically programmed to work a certain way, and while we can keep symptoms under control, we don't necessarily have a permanent cure," Dr. Zeichner explains.

How to identify common skin rashes and their symptoms

Size and location are the first things to consider when trying to identify a rash. "Something that's localized with distinct borders will typically be an outside-in job," Dr. Zeichner says, while inside-out ones "can lead to red, angry rashes throughout the entire body." The next clues to look for are the shape, color, and texture of the rash.

"If your over-the-counter products aren't working, you're suffering from a rash for a week or so, and it's not improving, you should touch base with a board-certified dermatologist," Dr. Zeichner says. "This is what we are trained to do, and treatment depends on proper diagnosis." Be sure to tell your doctor how long you've had the rash and any other symptoms you've been experiencing (such as a fever or difficulty breathing).

Ahead, you'll find pictures of common skin rashes, plus symptoms to look out for. It's important to note that rashes can look different depending on your skin tone. Some conditions might not cause discoloration on darker skin so if you're unsure, see a dermatologist who can make the proper diagnosis.

Eczema

What it looks like: Medically known as atopic dermatitis, eczema is an umbrella term for a range of skin conditions characterized by red, splotchy, dry, cracked, crusty, or flaky skin, that can emit clear fluid when scratched. It's usually clustered around the insides of elbows and knees, but can appear anywhere on the skin.

Other symptoms to note: Eczema is usually itchy and most common in young people, although many adults also have eczema-prone skin. An estimated 30% of Americans, mostly children and adolescents, suffer from eczema, per the National Institutes of Health. Cold, dry weather and overexposure to water can exacerbate the condition, according to Dr. Zeichner. For treatment options, here are some of the best eczema lotions.

bravo1954 - Getty Images

Contact dermatitis

What it looks like: Contact dermatitis has the same symptoms mentioned above, and can be a red rash that appears scaly or blistered, depending on its cause and severity. This rash often has a distinct border.

Other symptoms to note: Contact dermatitis appears following exposure to an irritant or allergen, and it's the most common rash caused by external factors, Dr. Zeichner says. (This can include certain chemicals, acids, botanicals, metals, and more.) Allergens usually cause a shiny, blistered, itchy rash, while irritants tend to cause a dry, scaly, less itchy rash. It can appear hours to days after exposure.

Nunyabb / Wikimedia Commons

Poison ivy

What it looks like: Poison ivy is a type of allergic contact dermatitis that is caused by the oil (urushiol oil) in the poison ivy plant, explains Karan Lal, D.O., M.S., F.A.A.D., double board-certified adult, pediatric, and cosmetic dermatologist with Affiliated Dermatology in Scottsdale, AZ. This rash presents with red, hive-looking plaques that are very itchy. You may also see black dots on your skin from the oil that has oxidized on the skin.

Other symptoms to note: A poison ivy rash is extremely itchy and is often accompanied by swelling and blisters, Dr. Lal says. Sometimes these blisters are linear in appearance. If exposed to poison ivy, be sure to rinse the area in water only as soap can further spread the oil from the plant. Treating a poison ivy rash usually involves prescription-strength topical or even oral steroids that will usually clear the rash in about seven to 10 days, explains Dr. Lal.

Jena Ardell - Getty Images

Ringworm

What it looks like: Ringworm is a common skin infection caused by a fungus. It gets its name from its circular rash, which is often red, swollen, and cracked.

Other symptoms to note: This rash is itchy and can cause hair loss when it occurs on the scalp. The same fungus also can cause athlete's foot and jock itch. Ringworm is contagious, so avoid touching people and pets or sharing objects like towels with others during flareups.

OGphoto - Getty Images

Rosacea

What it looks like: Rosacea causes redness and thick skin on the face, usually clustered in the center. Easy flushing, a stinging sensation, and small, pus-filled pimples are other common signs of the condition, which is often confused with acne breakouts.

Other symptoms to note: With rosacea, skin might feel rough, bumpy, or warm to the touch. Redness usually appears on the forehead, nose, cheeks, and chin. Red, itchy, sensitive eyes are also associated with the condition. Triggers include "spicy food, hot beverages, alcohol, extremes in temperature, and physical and emotional stress," Dr. Zeichner explains. Here are some rosacea treatment for flare-ups.

Barcroft Media - Getty Images

Psoriasis

What it looks like: Psoriasis causes patches of thickened skin, most often with silver, scaly flakes. It's usually found around the elbows, feet, knees, palms, and you can even have scalp psoriasis.

Other symptoms to note: Telltale scales set psoriasis apart from other rashes. Per the CDC, up to 20% of people with psoriasis also experience psoriatic arthritis. Psoriasis is not contagious; it's due to "overactivity of the immune system resulting in skin inflammation," Dr. Zeichner explains.

Right image credit: Tim Kubacki

RUTH JENKINSON / GettyTim Kubacki / Flickr

Hives

What it looks like: Also called urticaria, hives are raised welts in the skin that appear red or discolored. They range in size from small bumps to larger patches.

Other symptoms to note: Hives are most of often the result of exposure to allergens, and they could be a sign of a serious allergic reaction. Hives might not cause any discoloration on darker skin, so be alert for raised patches or welts—those could be a sign of urticaria. If you have shortness of breath, throat tightening, or tongue swelling , you should seek medical help right away.

Meredith P. / Flickr

Acne

What it looks like: Acne causes red, discolored bumps on the skin, along with whiteheads, blackheads, and cysts.

Other symptoms to note: Acne is the most common skin condition affecting Americans, Dr. Zeichner says, so you likely have experience with pimples already. The causes vary, but are often rooted in excess oil and bacteria on the face, chest, or back, which can be triggered by hormonal issues, stress, certain foods, and irritating products. Here are some adult acne treatment options.

Boy_Anupong - Getty Images

Chicken pox

What it looks like: "Chicken pox is rare [outside of childhood], but we still see it," Dr. Lal explains. It appears as marks that resemble "dew drops on a rose petal" or like blisters on a red bump, according to Dr. Lal. Sometimes you will see red bumps at first that then progress into blisters, but overall when you see chickenpox, you'll see various stages of healing where some older areas are crusty and dry while newer areas will be more red, bumpy, and itchy.

Other symptoms to note: Chicken pox rashes typically start toward the middle of the body and work outward toward the extremities. It can often cause pockmarked scars after the blisters heal. Additionally, if an individual is unvaccinated when they contract chicken pox it can be very dangerous and cause pneumonia or other severe illness, according to Dr. Lal.

rbkomar - Getty Images

Shingles

What it looks like: Also known as herpes zoster, shingles is a blistering rash. It often appears in a stripe or in the top quadrant of the head, but only on one side of the body.

Other symptoms to note: Blisters are painful and are sometimes accompanied by fever, headache, and chills. Local tingling or pain is common before the blisters appear. Shingles can affect the eye and even cause vision loss. The condition is caused by the same virus as chickenpox. Also, if you've been infected with COVID-19, you may be at a higher risk for shingles.

Bottom image credit: Preston Hunt

CDC / Robert E. SumpterPreston Hunt / Wikimedia Commons

Seborrheic dermatitis

What it looks like: Seborrheic dermatitis is a form of eczema that is characterized by scaly, oily or greasy patches of skin, usually on the scalp.

Other symptoms to note: This condition is itchy and can cause dandruff and buildup on the scalp. It's also common on other oily areas, like the face and chest, and can be difficult to treat. Dr. Zeichner explains that although the exact cause of seborrheic dermatitis is unknown, the body overreacts to yeast on oily parts of the skin, causing the thick, flaky buildup. To treat dandruff, use one of these best of the best dandruff shampoos.

Top image credit: Amras666

Amras666 / Wikimedia CommonsCDC / Susan Lindsley

Perioral dermatitis

What it looks like: Like seborrheic dermatitis, perioral dermatitis causes red, inflamed skin and small pustules around the nose and mouth.

Other symptoms to note: Flare-ups can be itchy and uncomfortable, and are often confused with acne. There is no known cause of perioral dermatitis, but overuse of topical corticosteroids is associated with the condition.

Roymishali / Wikimedia Commons

Scabies

What it looks like: Scabies is a discolored, splotchy rash that can appear pimple-like on any affected parts of the skin. Patients might also notice tiny lines on the skin where the mites have burrowed.

Other symptoms to note: Scabies is very itchy, and usually more intense at night. Unlike the other rashes on this list, this one is caused by an infestation of mites. It's very contagious and spreads easily through skin-to-skin contact in crowded spaces.

Top image credit: Cixia

Bottom image credit: Tim Kubacki

Cixia / Wikimedia CommonsTim Kubacki / Flickr

Drug rash

What it looks like: Drug rashes are usually speckled, itchy, and red, and can cover large areas of skin. They can appear days to weeks after taking medication.

Other symptoms to note: Drug rashes can be a side effect of or a reaction to a new medication; almost any medication can cause a drug rash, but antibiotics and NSAIDs are the most common culprits. The rash might not be anything to worry about, but it could be a sign of a serious allergic reaction, especially if combined with difficulty breathing. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience these symptoms.

Matibot / Wikimedia Commons

Candida

What it looks like: Candida, a type of yeast infection, can occur in lots of places—including the skin. It often occurs when the skin microbiome is dysregulated, causing an overgrowth of the yeast that normally lives on our skin, Dr. Lal explains. These rashes are often very red, macerated, and erosive-looking and are accompanied by red bumps or papules.

Other symptoms to note: Candida rashes often have a "sour, yeasty odor," Dr. Lal explains. Additionally, these rashes are accompanied by a burning sensation rather than a typical itching sensation. If your doctor diagnoses your rash as a candida infection, treatment will likely involve a prescription antifungal medication. These medications are often topical, but oral treatment is available for more serious cases.

cunfek - Getty Images

Lichen planus

What it looks like: Purplish lesions on the inner arms, legs, wrists, or ankles can signify lichen planus, a skin rash triggered by an overreaction of the immune system.

Other symptoms to note: The legions are usually itchy and may cause skin discoloration as they heal. Lichen planus does not have one single cause—illnesses, allergies, and stress can all trigger breakouts. It is not contagious.

Right image credit: James Heilman, M.D.

CDCJames Heilman, MD / Wikimedia Commons

Measles

What it looks like: Measles causes flat, red spots that cover huge swaths of skin. The rash often appears on the face near the hairline, then spreads down to the feet.

Other symptoms to note: The rash is accompanied by flu-like symptoms, including high fever, cough, and runny nose. Conjunctivitis (pink eye) is also common. Young people could face severe complications from measles, so contact your healthcare provider if you suspect exposure to the illness. Measles is spread when an infected person coughs or sneezes, and it's one of the most contagious diseases, per the CDC.

Top image credit: Mike Blyth

Mike Blyth / Wikimedia CommonsCDC /Dr. Heinz F. Eichenwald

Hand, foot, and mouth disease

What it looks like: Hand, foot, and mouth disease is named for its characteristic flat, red spots that appear on the palms, soles of the feet, and around the mouth.

Other symptoms to note: Spots may blister over time. Cold-like symptoms, including fever and loss of appetite, might also appear. It's usually not serious, but it's very contagious and can spread quickly through skin contact or respiratory transmission among people of any age, especially in schools.

KlatschmohnAcker / Wikimedia Commons

Tick bite

What it looks like: The most recognizable reaction on this list is the bullseye rash—a large, red, target-like rash that signals the early stages of Lyme disease from the bite of an infected blacklegged tick. However, many tick bites do not cause a bullseye rash; it appears in about 70 to 80% of Lyme patients.

Other symptoms to note: You might actually find a tick attached to you before a tick bite rash appears, which is usually itchy. If the tick is still attached, you have to be very careful when you remove the tick head. Once the rash appears, the bullseye rash in particular is a telltale sign of Lyme disease, even though some patients never get one, so monitor your symptoms and let your doctor know as soon as you notice one.

CDC / James Gathany

Lupus

What it looks like: Lupus, a chronic autoimmune disease that causes inflammation throughout the body, often presents with a red, butterfly-shaped rash across the cheeks and nose. It is usually worsened by exposure to the sun.

Other lupus symptoms to note: Although the rash does not leave scarring, it could cause discoloration after it disappears. The butterfly rash is distinct from the sores and scaly lesions also caused by lupus. Each case varies, but topical treatments and lifestyle changes can help the rash fade.

Doktorinternet / Wikimedia Commons

Petechiae

What it looks like: "Petechiae is essentially blood leakage into the skin," explains Dr. Lal. It looks like small red blotches or tiny, red pinpoint marks on the skin. These marks can appear anywhere but typically appear in areas where there is more pressure, such as the back, palms, and soles of the feet.

Other symptoms to note: Petechiae is a symptom related to other illnesses (most commonly, meningitis or lupus). It happens because of inflammation in the skin and blood vessels, leading to blood leakage into the skin. These marks will go away with time while undergoing treatment for the root cause.

bozhdb - Getty Images

Warts

What it looks like: Skin colored, rough bumps that typically develop on the feet may be warts, explains Dr. Zeichner. "They usually have a rough surface, resembling cauliflower. In some cases, there may be an individual spot or you may have multiple." He adds that besides the feet, warts commonly develop on the hands, knees, or almost anywhere on the body.

Other symptoms to note: They are generally considered to be harmless, except for their cosmetic appearance. However, in some cases, they may be uncomfortable, especially when they develop on the bottom of the feet, says Dr. Zeichner. "Warts can be treated with over-the-counter products that contain salicylic acid, [which] helps exfoliate dead cells that are infected by the virus. They also can be frozen with over-the-counter wart sprays, which kill the cells that are infected by the virus." If warts are not improving after a month of at-home treatments, visit a dermatologist for professional help. According to Dr. Zeichner, your dermatologist can freeze the warts with professional strength liquid nitrogen or use a variety of other prescription options, both topically or injected.

Getty Images

Athlete's foot

What it looks like: Athlete's foot is a rash caused by a fungal infection of the skin. People typically develop a rash between the toes, and the skin becomes white, moist, and falls apart, explains Dr. Zeichner. "In some cases, it can affect the entire bottom of the feet in the distribution of a moccasin shoe. Here, the entire bottom of the feet becomes rough and scaly."

Other symptoms to note: "In some cases," says Dr. Zeichner, "it can affect the entire bottom of the feet in the distribution of a moccasin shoe. Here, the entire bottom of the feet becomes rough and scaly." Athlete's foot can be treated with over-the-counter antifungal creams. If twice daily use after 2 to 4 weeks is not helping, Dr. Zeichner suggests that you visit your dermatologist for prescription topical or oral medications.

MTMCOINS - Getty Images

Molluscum

What it looks like: Molluscum is a rash where small groups of bumps develop on the skin, says Dr. Zeichner. "The bumps have a pearly appearance, and usually have a central indentation."

Other symptoms to note: Molluscum is caused by a virus and is spread by direct contact. Dr. Zeichner says that it is "common in children and in people with a disrupted skin barrier, such as eczema." It also can spread through intimate contact and is seen in the genital areas in adults. The bumps go away on their own over several months. However, they are contagious, even to other parts of your own body, so Dr. Zeichner recommends getting professional treatment. Your dermatologist can scrape them, freeze them, or give you topical treatments to help get rid of them.

JodiJacobson

Pityriasis rosea

What it looks like: Pityriasis rosea is a rash where oblong, red scaly patches develop typically on the chest in the back, says Dr. Zeichner. "The rash develops in streaks and is thought to resemble a Christmas tree pattern."

Other symptoms to note: It is unclear why the rash develops, but it is thought to be an immune response after an upper respiratory infection, says Dr. Zeichner. "Proper diagnosis is important for management." Fortunately, no matter what you do to treat your pityriasis rosea, the rash is self-resolving and goes away on its own after about eight weeks.

Actinic keratoses

What it looks like: Actinic keratoses are pre-cancerous changes to the skin caused by sun damage, explains Dr. Zeichner. "The rash feels like sandpaper when you run your fingers over it." In some cases, there may be significant scaling in individual areas.

Other symptoms to note: Actinic keratosis typically develops on sun-exposed areas like the face and the arms. It is important to see a dermatologist if you have this condition because the spots are at risk for turning into skin cancers in the future, says Dr. Zeichner. "Your dermatologist may freeze them with liquid nitrogen, apply other topical treatments or lasers, or give you a prescription for a cream to use at home."

Alamy

Flea bites

What it looks like: Flea bites appear most often on the feet, ankles, and lower legs, says Lauren O'Connell, beauty editor at Cosmopolitan Middle East and beauty expert. "They have a distinctive 'breakfast, lunch, dinner' pattern in that the bites are usually in a straight line or tight cluster of three to four small, red lesions."

Other symptoms to note: The bites are extremely itchy and can develop into a hive-like rash. To treat the bites, first wash the lesions with an antibacterial soap. O'Connell says that it's imperative to not scratch your skin as fingernails contain bacteria and can cause an infection on open skin. "Use a skin soothing treatment like calamine lotion to quell the irritation and consult a doctor if you begin to run a fever, the bites swell up and feel warm to the touch, or if you feel short of breath."

Alamy

Fifth disease

What it looks like: Fifth Disease is caused by Parvovirus B19 and presents with a red rash on the cheeks, arms, and legs that can last for several weeks, says O'Connell. This condition occurs most often in children.

Other symptoms to note: In addition to the signature slapped cheek look of Fifth Disease, other symptoms include nausea, sore throat, headache, and a low-grade fever. Generally, there is no treatment necessary, as the rash will go away on its own. However, O'Connell says that its symptoms can be managed with over-the-counter medication. Still, "when in doubt, consult your primary healthcare provider," says O'Connell.

Alamy

Impetigo

What it looks like: Impetigo occurs most often on the face, particularly around the nose and mouth, says O'Connell. "This contagious skin rash is caused by streptococcus and staphylococcus bacteria that enter the body through compromised skin."

Other symptoms to note: Initially, red blisters form at the infection site. After they swell and burst, a honey-colored crust forms. If you suspect you have impetigo, pay a visit to your primary healthcare provider, O'Connell suggests. "After analysis, they may prescribe topical or oral antibiotics."

Siro Rodenas Cortes - Getty Images

Scarlet fever

What it looks like: Scarlatina, aka scarlet fever, occurs from the Group A streptococcus bacteria of a strep throat infection, says O'Connell. "The bacteria releases a toxin that causes a bright red blotchy rash that has a sandpaper-like texture, and the rash can spread to the entire body and usually first appears on the groin, neck, and under arms."

Other symptoms to note: Other symptoms of scarlet fever include a high fever and sore throat. "A trip to the doctor's is essential for examination," says O'Connell. Typically, oral antibiotics are prescribed.

Alamy

When to see your doctor for a skin rash

While some skin rashes will go away on their own and can be managed at home, there are a few key signs you shouldn't ignore and head to your doctor, or even in some cases, the emergency room.

If you are in pain, your rash is itchy enough to interfere with your daily activities, or you observe the rash spreading, a visit to your dermatologist is likely warranted. "Essentially, if you cannot manage it at home within five to seven days, it's time to see your dermatologist," says Dr. Lal.

However, if you have any signs of systemic illness, Dr. Lal urges you to go to the emergency room. These signs include: Fever, chills, neck pain, fatigue, inability to look at bright light, or inability to eat or drink. "If you have those symptoms, it's time to go to the emergency room. This is not the time to go to the dermatologist," explains Dr. Lal.

Prevention - Hearst Owned

Can You Spot The 11 Summer Skin Hazards From Their Rashes?

SUMMER can bring on its own unique set of lumps, bumps, itchy patches and rashes.

But one can often look similar to the other and can be difficult to tell what caused your skin to break out and how to treat it.

Sunburn will make your skin red, hot and soreCredit: Getty

If you're having trouble telling them apart, here's your comprehensive, summer skin hazard guide, with pictures to match - so you know what to look for.

1. Sunburn

Sunburn is a pretty common summer complaint and it should be pretty straightforward to tell if you have it.

Your skin might feel hot and sore after spending too much time in the sun and it'll have a distinctive reddish-pink hue if you have light skin, and with darker skin, areas of burnt skin may appear darker than normal.

The burnt areas may start to flake and peel after a few days and may even blister in severe cases, according to the NHS.

ROUGH PUFF I fell asleep on the beach & got severe sun poisoning - I looked like an alien

HOT STUFF I'm a doctor - the worst summer injuries & illnesses we see and how to stay safe

You should be able to treat sunburn at home.

Make sure to avoid sun exposure for a good few days until your skin has fully healed and wear lightweight clothing that covers the burn.

Reapply plenty of SPF30 sun cream when you're out and about.

2. Sun allergy

A sun allergy can cause an itchy burning rash

Sometimes you might have a severe reaction to a sunburn or your skin can be extra sensitive to sun exposure, causing you to break out in hives or an itchy, burning rash.

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