3 Essential Tips for Treating Sunburn on Dark Skin: Your Guide to Healing and Protection

Imagine this: you're on a much-needed vacation, soaking in the sun, sipping a refreshing drink, and feeling like you're living your best life. The weather is perfect, the scenery is breathtaking, and you can’t help but bask in the golden rays. But then, the next day—OUCH! You realize you’ve spent a little too much time in the sun, and now you’re dealing with a painful sunburn. While you can’t rewind time, don’t worry—there are ways to treat your sunburn and get your skin back on track. Here are three essential tips to help soothe and heal your skin while preventing long-term damage.

1. Hydrate Your Skin Inside and Out

After a sunburn, your skin is in desperate need of hydration. Dehydration can delay healing and may increase the risk of hyperpigmentation, which is common in darker skin. To support the recovery process:

• Drink plenty of water to rehydrate your skin from within.

• Apply a soothing, moisture-rich product like CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser to cleanse without stripping your skin of its natural oils.

Aloe vera gel can also provide immediate cooling relief. When choosing products, opt for those without alcohol to avoid further drying out your skin.

2. Protect Your Skin with Sunscreen

Even though you're recovering from a sunburn, it’s crucial to continue protecting your skin from the sun’s harsh rays. Sun exposure can cause further damage and lead to dark spots, which are more visible on darker skin tones.

• Apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to your sunburned skin every 2 hours if you plan to be outdoors.

• Use sunscreens designed for darker skin, such as Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30, which offers effective protection without leaving a white cast.

Proper sun protection will help prevent post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) and ensure your skin stays healthy as it heals.

3. Avoid Irritation and Exfoliation Until Healing Is Complete

Your skin is sensitive after a sunburn, so it’s essential to be gentle during the healing process. Avoid using harsh products or scrubs, which can exacerbate irritation and increase the risk of hyperpigmentation.

• Stick with gentle, non-irritating products like Eucerin Advanced Repair Lotion to nourish your skin and prevent peeling.

• Avoid exfoliating until your skin is fully healed to prevent dark spots and ensure an even tone.

Once your skin has healed, gentle exfoliation can help promote smoother skin, but be patient—over-exfoliating can cause more harm than good.

The Bottom Line: Soothing Sunburn on Dark Skin

Taking care of your skin after a sunburn is essential to prevent long-term damage and ensure a smooth, even complexion. By staying hydrated, protecting your skin with sunscreen, and avoiding further irritation, you can support the healing process and prevent dark spots.

If you're looking for more personalized skincare advice or treatments for sun-damaged skin, contact Mantra Aesthetic Studio in Virginia Beach, Va today. Our skin-of-color specialty Medspa offers tailored treatments and expert guidance to help restore and maintain your radiant complexion, no matter the season.

Mantra Aesthetic Studio

Inside of MySalon Suites in Red Mill Commons Shopping Center

1169 Nimmo Pkwy, Suite 224

Room 201

Virginia Beach, VA 23456

www.mantraaesthetics.com

IG: @mantra.aestheticsvb