How to remove dark burn spots from skin

After inflammation or a burn, the skin can produce extra pigment that leaves a brown or grey mark. A mark may also follow [Pimples](/symptoms/pimples/), acne, folliculitis, or irritation from shaving. The colour can deepen with ultraviolet exposure, and rubbing or applying strong products to healing skin can prolong irritation.

A dark spot is not a diagnosis on its own. Patterns such as recurrent bumps, facial flushing, or a rash around the mouth may point toward conditions including [Acne](/conditions/acne/), [Folliculitis](/conditions/folliculitis/), or [Rosacea](/conditions/rosacea/).

Do not apply brightening acids, retinoids, bleach, or home remedies to open, blistered, or freshly burned skin. Keep the area clean, moisturised, and protected from sunlight once the surface has closed; cover it with clothing where practical and use a broad-spectrum sunscreen on healed skin. Avoid picking, friction, and repeated hair removal over the mark.

A dermatologist can decide whether a pigment treatment is suitable after examining the depth and cause of the mark. Do not use a light-based treatment such as [LED Light Therapy](/treatments/laser-and-energy/led-light-therapy/) on a healing burn without professional guidance.

Get urgent medical help for a large or deep burn, severe pain, spreading redness, pus, fever, facial involvement, or burns affecting the eyes, hands, or genitals. Arrange a review if the area is raised, itchy, enlarging, repeatedly bleeding, or not healing. New bumps after shaving may need assessment for [Razor Bumps](/conditions/pseudofolliculitis-barbae/) rather than pigment care alone.

Ask whether the skin has healed enough for treatment, which ingredients are suitable for your skin tone, and how to prevent another mark. Tell the clinician when the burn occurred, what caused it, and every product used since.