What should I do if my horse’s pink skin is sunburnt? | arlo.® Atlas
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Overview
If your horse’s pink skin looks sunburnt, the first step is to get them out of direct sun and check the skin closely. Mild sunburn often looks red, sore or warm, but there can be other causes too, including skin sensitivity, rubbing or an early skin reaction.
Most cases need calm supportive care rather than panic. If the skin is blistered, very swollen, very painful or not improving, it’s sensible to speak to your vet.
Things To Check
1. Check whether the skin change showed up after turnout, especially during bright sun or windy weather.
2. Look closely for redness, heat, swelling, broken skin, scabs or any discharge.
3. Check the most exposed areas, such as the nose, muzzle, pink markings, around the eyes and any thin-skinned patches.
4. Notice whether your horse is rubbing the area, head shaking, stamping, or seeming uncomfortable when touched.
5. See whether there are signs of another issue, such as fly irritation, mud, sweat, tack rubs or a recent clip.
6. Check whether the skin feels just pink and dry, or whether it’s becoming sore, blistered or more swollen.
7. Consider whether your horse has very light skin or a white face, which can be more prone to sun sensitivity.
Common Causes
The most common cause is simple sun exposure on pale or pink skin, especially on unpigmented areas.
Skin can also look sunburnt after rubbing from tack, headcollars or rugs, or after clipping and grooming has made the skin more exposed.
Sometimes the problem is linked to photosensitivity, where the skin reacts more strongly to sunlight because of an underlying issue or something the horse has come into contact with. Less commonly, a skin infection or allergic reaction can look similar at first glance.
What To Do
Move your horse out of direct sun if you can and give them access to shade or stabling during the brightest part of the day.
Gently check the skin once or twice a day so you can see whether it’s settling or getting worse.
Keep the area clean and dry, but avoid scrubbing, harsh products or repeated washing unless you’ve been advised to do so.
If the skin is sore, try to reduce anything that might rub it, including tack, headcollars or nosebands, until it’s comfortable again.
For future turnout, think about practical shade, fly masks or other sun-management options that suit your horse, especially if they have pink skin or a light face.
If you’re not sure whether it’s plain sunburn or something else, take a photo and keep a note of when it appears, because that can help you and your vet spot a pattern.
When To Contact A Vet
Contact your vet if the skin is blistered, very swollen, very painful, oozing, or if your horse seems unwell. It’s also sensible to get advice if the problem keeps coming back, seems linked to sunlight every time, or you’re worried about photosensitivity.
Products That May Help
If your horse has sensitive or sun-exposed skin, a gentle wash routine can help you keep the area clean without adding more irritation. This collection may be useful as part of everyday coat and skin care.
Related Questions
How can I tell if my horse has sunburn or a skin reaction?
What’s the best way to protect pink skin on a horse?
Should I keep my horse in if the skin looks sore after sun exposure?
Atlas is here to support owners with practical, easy-to-understand guidance. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you're concerned about your animal's health, symptoms worsen, or something doesn't feel right, contact your vet.