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how to cure sunburn dark skin on face
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Skin & Hair Concerns
Question #15066
45 days ago
98

how to cure sunburn dark skin on face - #15066

Priya

I am really stressing over this sunburn on my face. I was out on the beach last weekend, totally forgot to apply sunscreen, and now my skin's looking like a tomato. Especially with having dark skin, I’m worried about how to cure sunburn dark skin on face without making it worse. The redness is bad, and I've been trying aloe vera gel and some hydrating creams, but it feels like everything is stinging or just not helping. I've even read mixed things online about how to cure sunburn dark skin on face—some say to use moisturizers, while others suggest avoiding products with fragrance. Like, do I really need to just leave it alone? Also, I noticed some peeling starting, which makes me freak out more about how to cure sunburn dark skin on face because I don't want any dark spots or marks after it heals, you know? I’m considering seeing a dermatologist, but I’d love to hear if you all have any tips or home remedies that might work. Like, what have you found helpful personally? Just feeling kind of lost over here and want my skin to be back to normal!!

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Doctors’ responses

To address sunburn on dark skin, prioritize soothing and healing the skin without causing additional irritation. Start by gently cleansing your face with a mild, fragrance-free cleanser to avoid exacerbating sensitivity. Consider avoiding hot water and apply a cool, damp cloth to the sunburned areas to bring relief and reduce inflammation. Aloe vera gel is a good choice but can sometimes sting because of alcohol or preservatives; make sure you’re using a pure, alcohol-free product. It might be a good idea to keep it refrigerated for extra cooling effect before application. Since your skin is starting to peel, resist any temptation to peel it off yourself, as this can lead to further damage or scarring. Instead, maintain hydration by drinking plenty of water and using a rich, fragrance-free moisturizer that can support skin repair. Products containing hyaluronic acid or ceramides can strengthen the skin’s moisture barrier without clogging pores or increasing irritation. Another tip would be to apply a thick, fragrance-free moisturizing cream before bed—that way it works overnight while your skin naturally regenerates. If you find over-the-counter hydrocortisone creams legally available, they could help reduce inflammation and discomfort, but use them sparingly and not on broken skin. It might be wise to avoid direct sun exposure while your face heals, and wear a broad brimmed hat and sunglasses if you need to be outside. In the future, consider sunscreens formulated for darker skin tones, which might offer a better balance of protection without leaving a noticeable tint. If the redness, pain, or peeling worsens, or if you develop any blistering or signs of infection, it would be a more serious concern requiring medical attention. In such cases, consulting a dermatologist would be necessary to ensure proper healing and avoid complications like post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, which can be particularly troubling on darker skin.

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