What Is a Welder’s Burn? My Painful Lesson on UV Arc Exposure

I made a mistake I’ll never forget—and it cost me more than comfort. One day, I was welding without a long-sleeve shirt. It was hot, I figured it would be a quick weld, and I didn’t think twice. A few hours later, my skin darkened. Then it peeled. That wasn’t dirt on my arm—it was skin damage. I had just learned the hard way what’s called a welder’s burn or arc burn, and it’s no joke.

by Brent Mathurin

What Is a Welder’s Burn?

A welder’s burn is a form of UV radiation burn caused by exposure to the arc light produced during welding. It’s similar to a severe sunburn, but it happens much faster and can penetrate deeper. The intense ultraviolet rays—especially from arc welding processes like MIG and TIG—can burn unprotected skin in just minutes.

Signs You’ve Been Burned by the Arc

If you've been welding without full protection and notice any of the following, you’ve likely experienced a welder’s burn:

• Skin darkening (like a fast tan or brown patch)

• Redness and irritation

• Peeling skin (days after exposure)

• Tender or itchy areas

• In serious cases: blistering and pain

It usually starts with discoloration… and then the peeling kicks in.

Why It Happens So Fast

Arc welding produces not just visible light but UVB and UVC rays—the same types that cause sunburn, only at much higher intensities. Unlike the sun, you’re much closer to the light source, and your skin gets bombarded without mercy. That’s why even just a “quick tack” without sleeves can result in serious damage.

How to Treat a Welder’s Burn

If the burn is mild, you can treat it at home like a sunburn:

• Apply cool (not icy) compresses

• Use aloe vera gel or a burn relief ointment

• Keep the area clean and moisturized

• Drink lots of water

• Avoid further UV exposure until healed

For more serious burns—especially if there are blisters, swelling, or signs of infection—see a doctor immediately.

How to Prevent Welder’s Burn

Welding safety is not optional. Always wear the right PPE:

• Long-sleeve FR (flame-resistant) shirts or jackets

• Welding gloves

• Welding helmet with proper shade lens

• Neck protection and full-coverage clothing

Even if it's hot outside, protection is a must. Arc rays don’t care how quick the job is.

What I Learned

Getting burned reminded me that safety isn’t about convenience—it’s about long-term health. It’s easy to cut corners when the job feels small. But one careless moment with UV arc light can leave you with weeks of pain or even permanent damage.

So, if you’re a welder reading this: Wear the sleeves. Every time.

Recommended Gear I Use Now (Affiliate Links):

Here’s what I use now to stay safe—and what I recommend:

• 🔗 Lincoln Electric FR Cotton Welding Jacket

• 🔗 Revco BSX Welding Sleeves – Flame-Resistant

• 🔗 Aloe Vera Gel for Burns

These are affiliate links. If you buy through them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It helps support this blog and future safety content.