Sunburn on Black skin: signs, care and prevention

Melanin provides some natural protection but does not block all ultraviolet radiation. A burn may look deep red, purple, grey-brown or simply darker than nearby skin, depending on skin tone and lighting.

Sunburn is an inflammatory response after too much ultraviolet exposure. The area can feel hot or sore before a colour change becomes obvious. More intense burns can cause swelling or fluid-filled blisters; healing skin may peel and can temporarily become lighter or darker.

Repeated ultraviolet exposure can contribute to uneven pigmentation and premature skin ageing. It also raises skin-cancer risk in every skin tone, although changes can be harder to recognise on deeply pigmented skin.

Move out of the sun, cool the skin with a damp cloth or a cool shower, and drink fluids. Apply a plain, fragrance-free moisturiser while the skin is slightly damp. Do not apply ice directly, break blisters or pull peeling skin.

Keep the area covered with loose clothing while it heals. For future exposure, combine shade, protective clothing, a hat and broad-spectrum sunscreen; apply it evenly to often-missed areas such as the ears, feet and hairline, and reapply after swimming or heavy sweating.

Seek urgent medical advice for widespread blistering, severe swelling, worsening pain, fever, chills, confusion, faintness, vomiting, dehydration, eye pain or a burn affecting a baby. Increasing warmth, pus, red streaking or worsening tenderness after the initial injury can suggest infection.

Arrange a dermatology assessment for a spot that changes in size, shape or colour, bleeds without clear injury, or does not heal. These changes deserve examination regardless of skin tone.

Ask whether your medicines or skincare products increase sun sensitivity, what moisturiser is suitable for blistered or peeling skin, and how to check your skin and nails for concerning changes.