Brown spots after sunburn: what to know

Sunburn injures skin and triggers inflammation. As the area heals, pigment can become more noticeable, especially where redness or peeling occurred. This is different from continuing Sunburn, which may still cause heat, tenderness, redness, or fluid-filled Skin Blisters. Repeated ultraviolet exposure can also add to Sun-Damaged Skin over time.

Stay out of direct sun while the skin is tender, cover the area, and use sunscreen on exposed healed skin. Moisturise gently; Emollient Therapy can support comfort when the surface is dry. Do not peel flakes, pop blisters, or apply strong acids to dark marks. A dermatologist can advise whether a prescription option, including Topical Corticosteroids for selected inflammation, is suitable.

Seek medical care for extensive blistering, severe pain, dehydration symptoms, fever, confusion, or signs of infection such as worsening warmth and pus. Arrange a skin examination if one spot becomes irregular, raised, scaly, persistently crusted, or different from the surrounding pigment.

Is the colour change part of healing or a separate lesion? How should I moisturise and protect the area? Which treatments are safe once the skin has fully recovered?