Sunburn and Melanoma: What to Know

Sunburn is an acute reaction to ultraviolet exposure. Melanoma begins in pigment-producing cells and may appear as a new spot or a change in an existing mole. Sunburn does not prove that a particular mark is melanoma, and a melanoma can occur without a recent burn. Repeated ultraviolet exposure is a preventable skin risk, so protecting exposed skin matters. Learn more about [Melanoma](/conditions/melanoma/) and do not interpret a sunburn alone as a cancer diagnosis.

Let a sunburn heal with cool compresses, gentle moisturiser, and protection from more ultraviolet exposure. Once the skin is comfortable, check your skin regularly for a spot that changes in size, shape, colour, or texture, or a lesion that stands out from your other marks. Use shade, protective clothing, a hat, and sunscreen on exposed skin. If a dermatologist suspects melanoma, diagnosis may involve a close examination and removal of the concerning lesion for laboratory assessment. Treatment depends on the findings and may include [Surgical Excision](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/excisional-surgery/) or other [Skin Cancer Surgery](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/skin-cancer-surgery/).

Book a dermatology appointment for a new or changing pigmented spot, an irregular border, several colours, persistent itching, bleeding, crusting, or a sore that does not heal. Seek prompt assessment for a rapidly changing lesion or a new lump near a known skin cancer. Confirmed melanoma may require staging and treatment planning, which can include [Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy](/treatments/diagnostics-and-staging/sentinel-lymph-node-biopsy/). New neurological symptoms in someone with diagnosed advanced melanoma need urgent medical attention.

Does this lesion need dermoscopic examination or removal? What features make it concerning? If melanoma is confirmed, what staging tests are appropriate? Which treatment and follow-up plan fit the findings? How should I check my skin and protect it from ultraviolet exposure?