What should you know about cellulitis on dark skin?

Cellulitis is a bacterial infection in deeper layers of skin and tissue. Colour change can be subtle, especially in the early stage. Compare the area with nearby skin in natural light and look for a patch that feels noticeably warmer, swollen, tight or painful. The edge may expand, and the skin may appear shiny. A fever or feeling unwell can occur. Cracks between the toes, including those linked with Athlete's Foot, can provide an entry point. Type 2 Diabetes and poor circulation can make foot or leg infections harder to manage.

Arrange prompt medical assessment if a new warm, tender or spreading patch is present. Do not squeeze, scratch or pierce the skin. Gently clean any break, cover it with a clean dressing and keep the area raised when resting. Note when the change began and whether swelling, pain or colour is increasing. A clinician may prescribe antibiotics after examining you; take them exactly as directed and do not use leftover medicine.

Seek urgent care for rapidly spreading swelling or colour change, severe pain, blisters, numbness, confusion, faintness, breathing difficulty or a high fever. Go urgently if the infection is near the eye, or if you feel suddenly very ill. These symptoms can signal a deeper infection or Sepsis and need immediate assessment.

Ask whether the appearance fits cellulitis or another cause of skin change, whether a wound or fungal infection may be an entry point, how to mark or monitor the edge, and which symptoms should prompt a return visit.