Protect pink-skinned areas with shade, a UV-blocking fly mask with a nose flap, and pet-safe sunblock on the muzzle. Turn out in the cooler hours and watch for redness or soreness on white markings.
Who is at risk
Horses with pink skin under white markings, especially on the muzzle and around the eyes, burn most easily. Grey and light-coloured horses and those with a blaze or snip need particular care in strong summer sun.
Provide shade
The simplest protection is shade, whether natural from trees or a field shelter. Turn sensitive horses out in the cooler morning and evening hours and bring them in or offer shade during the strongest midday sun to reduce exposure.
Use a UV fly mask
A fly mask with UV protection and a nose flap shields the face and muzzle from both flies and sun at once, which is ideal in summer. Choose one with good coverage of the pink areas. See our guide to the best horse fly masks.
Apply sunblock
On exposed pink skin such as the muzzle, apply a pet-safe, high-factor sunblock and reapply through the day. Avoid getting it in the eyes and mouth, and patch-test first. This is especially important for horses that rub off a nose flap.
Watch for problems
Check pink areas daily for redness, flaking or soreness, and act early with more shade and protection. Repeated burning can lead to more serious skin damage, so if skin looks sore, crusty or does not settle, ask your vet.
