Horse Sunburn: Signs, Prevention & Summer Skin Care Guide

Horses can sunburn — and for some horses, sun exposure is a significant management concern. Understanding how sunburn affects horses and how to prevent and manage it helps you protect your horse during warmer months.

Which Horses Are Most at Risk?

Not all horses are equally susceptible to sunburn. Horses at higher risk include:

• Horses with pink or lightly pigmented skin, particularly around the muzzle, face, and any areas with white markings
• Horses with light-colored coats (grays, cremellos, perlinos, pintos with extensive white)
• Horses with conditions that cause photosensitization

Photosensitization — an abnormal reaction to sunlight — is distinct from simple sunburn and may be associated with certain plants, liver disease, medications, or other underlying conditions. It requires veterinary evaluation.

Signs of Sunburn in Horses

Equine sunburn typically appears on areas with pink, unpigmented skin, most commonly:

• The muzzle and around the nostrils
• Around the eyes
• Areas with white markings on the legs or body

Signs may include:

• Redness
• Peeling or flaking skin
• Swelling
• Sensitivity or pain when touched
• In more severe cases, blistering or ulceration

Preventing Sunburn

Prevention is significantly more effective than treatment. Key management strategies include:

Shade and Shelter

Ensure your horse has access to shade during peak sunlight hours, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. A run-in shed, trees, or other shelter gives your horse a way to seek relief from direct sun.

Fly Masks with UV Protection

UV-protective fly masks help shield the face and around the eyes from direct sun exposure. Look for masks that cover the muzzle if your horse is particularly vulnerable.

Turnout Timing

Consider adjusting turnout schedules to favor early morning, evening, or overnight turnout for horses highly susceptible to sunburn, keeping them stabled during the highest UV-index hours.

Appropriate Topical Products

Some horse owners apply equine-safe sun protection products to vulnerable areas, particularly the muzzle. Consult your veterinarian before applying any topical product to your horse's skin.

Managing Sunburned Skin

If your horse develops sunburn:

• Remove the horse from sun exposure immediately.
• Keep sunburned areas clean and dry.
• Do not apply products not specifically approved for equine use without veterinary guidance.
• Consult your veterinarian if blistering, ulceration, significant swelling, or signs of secondary infection develop.
• Use gentle grooming practices around affected areas to avoid further irritation.

Photosensitization vs. Sunburn

Photosensitization causes a more severe reaction to sunlight than typical sunburn. It may affect pigmented as well as unpigmented skin and can spread rapidly.

Signs of photosensitization that differ from typical sunburn include extensive areas of involvement, rapid progression, and skin involvement beyond areas with pink pigmentation.

If you suspect photosensitization rather than simple sunburn, contact your veterinarian promptly.

Medical Disclaimer

This article is intended for educational purposes only and does not replace professional veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment of any health condition affecting your horse.

After treating sunburn, gentle grooming is essential during recovery. Dapple Up Equine is plant-based and free from harsh chemicals, making it a gentle option for bathing horses with sensitive or sun-affected skin.

• Summer Horse Skin Care: Keeping Your Horse Healthy During Hot Weather
• The Complete Horse Skin Care Guide
• Sensitive Skin in Horses: Causes, Care & Prevention
• The Complete Gray Horse Care Guide
• What Your Horse's Coat Can Tell You About Their Health