Summer Horse Skin Care: Preventing Sunburn, Coat Bleaching and Queensland Itch Naturally

As temperatures rise, horses face more than just heat stress — sunburn, coat bleaching, and Queensland Itch (also known as sweet itch) are some of the most common summer skin issues horse owners deal with. These conditions don’t just affect your horse’s appearance; they can cause pain, irritation, inflammation and a weakened immune response. The good news? With the right combination of nutrition, topical care, and prevention, you can help your horse stay comfortable and protected all summer long.

Sunburn in Horses: Causes and Treatment

Horses with pink skin, white markings or light coats are most at risk of sunburn. Sensitive areas like the muzzle, eyelids and face burn easily under harsh UV rays.

✅ Topical Sunburn Prevention:

• UV-protective fly masks and rugs to block harmful sunlight

• Zinc-based sunscreen on pink noses and white markings

• Aloe vera and calendula creams to soothe damaged skin

• Avoid oily or petroleum-based creams in full sun, as they can intensify burning

✅ Nutritional Support for Sunburn:

• Omega-3 fatty acids (hemp seed oil, linseed, chia) to reduce inflammation and aid skin healing

• Vitamin E and selenium to combat free-radical damage and support tissue repair

• Electrolytes and hydration keep skin supple and aid recovery

Coat Bleaching: Why Your Horse’s Coat Fades in Summer

Coat bleaching occurs when prolonged UV exposure breaks down hair pigment, especially in dark-coated horses like bays, blacks and liver chestnuts.

✅ How to Prevent Coat Bleaching:

• Lightweight UV summer rugs or shade access during peak sun hours

• Leave-in conditioners or detanglers with UV protection

• Regular washing to remove sweat, as dried sweat can intensify bleaching and dryness

✅ Nutrition for Coat Colour and Shine:

• Omega-3 oils (hemp, camelina, flax) for natural shine and coat moisture

• Copper and zincfor healthy pigmentation — deficiencies often show as orange or rusty coat fading

• Amino acids (lysine, methionine) for strong hair growth

• Biotin and protein-rich diets for healthy skin and hooves

Queensland Itch (Sweet Itch): Nutritional and Topical Relief

Queensland Itch is an allergic reaction to midge bites, causing intense itching, rubbing, hair loss and skin inflammation along the mane, tail and belly.

✅ Topical Solutions:

• Insect and sweet itch rugs with belly flap and tail cover

• Natural repellents such as neem oil, tea tree, citronella or DEET-free sprays

• Medicated soothing shampoos with oatmeal, chlorhexidine or aloe vera

• Barrier creams or zinc ointment on irritated skin to protect from rubbing and infection

✅ Nutrition to Reduce Itch and Inflammation:

• High Omega-3 intake (hemp seed oil, flaxseed oil) to reduce allergic response

• Probiotics or brewer’s yeast for immune support and gut health

• Anti-inflammatory herbs such as turmeric, rosehip or spirulina (under veterinary guidance)

• Low-sugar, low-starch diets to avoid immune flare-ups and skin irritation

Final Tips for Healthy Summer Skin and Coat in Horses

A well-rounded approach is key to preventing summer skin issues:

✔ Provide shade, clean water and electrolyte access daily
✔ Include Omega-3s, essential minerals and antioxidants in their diet
✔ Use UV-protective rugs, fly masks and insect barriers
✔ Groom regularly to remove sweat, dirt and dead skin
✔ Start prevention before symptoms appear – especially if your horse has a history of Queensland Itch or sunburn

Conclusion

Summer doesn’t have to mean itchy skin, sunburnt noses or faded coats. With the right combination of nutritional support and topical care, you can protect your horse from sun damage, boost coat health and soothe seasonal allergies like Queensland Itch. Prevention is always better than cure — but even if symptoms start, early intervention makes all the difference.