Sunburn on Black and Darker Skin

Natural melanin provides some ultraviolet protection but does not prevent injury. Assess how the skin feels as well as how it looks, especially after prolonged or intense sun exposure.

Instead of bright redness, burned skin may look deep brown, greyish, purplish, or simply darker than usual. It can feel hot, sore, tight, or itchy; more substantial burns may blister and later peel.

The colour change can persist after tenderness settles because inflammation may stimulate pigment. Repeated ultraviolet exposure also contributes to uneven tone and sun-damaged skin, regardless of whether each episode looks visibly red.

Move out of the sun, cool the area with a damp cloth or a cool shower, drink fluids, and apply a bland fragrance-free moisturiser. Do not place ice directly on burned skin or pull away peeling skin.

Leave blisters intact and cover them loosely with a clean non-stick dressing if clothing rubs. Avoid further ultraviolet exposure while healing; use shade, protective clothing, and broad-spectrum sunscreen on exposed intact skin. A pharmacist or clinician can advise on suitable pain relief based on your health and medicines.

Seek urgent assessment for extensive blistering, severe pain, facial swelling, confusion, faintness, vomiting, a strong headache, or signs of dehydration such as very little urine. Move to a cool place while arranging help if overheating is suspected.

A blister that becomes increasingly painful, warm, swollen, or produces pus may be infected. Babies, young children, and people with significant medical conditions should be assessed earlier when a burn is more than mild.

Ask how to dress any blisters, which moisturiser or pain medicine is appropriate, and how to manage lingering dark marks without irritating them. If you take medicine that increases sun sensitivity, ask whether extra protective measures or a medication review is needed.