If skin feels hot and sore
Move out of the sun, cool skin gently with cool water or a damp towel, and use an unperfumed moisturiser. Avoid direct ice, peeling off skin or opening blisters. Seek urgent assessment for blisters, swelling, fever, dizziness or nausea after sun exposure, and for sunburn in a young child.
Protection that fits your day
Choose a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher for exposed skin. Reapply every two hours outdoors and after swimming or sweating, following the label. Use shade and protective clothing too; sunscreen does not make prolonged sun exposure safe.
Simplify products that irritate skin
Irritating skin-care products can worsen dark spots. Choose gentle, fragrance-free products and stop a cosmetic product that causes irritation. If it is a prescribed medicine, contact the prescriber to adjust the plan. Avoid starting several new treatments together.
Exfoliation is not always the first step
Do not exfoliate sunburned or broken skin. Aggressive exfoliation can increase irritation and pigmentation, especially if your skin develops dark marks after inflammation. Your skin type and existing products affect the choice; one exfoliation schedule does not suit everyone.
Persistent dark spots need an explanation
Not every mark noticed after summer comes from sunlight alone; acne, irritation or hormonal changes may contribute. Treatment starts with identifying the cause. A dermatologist may recommend a tinted sunscreen containing iron oxides for some pigmentation concerns, to protect against visible light too.
Before laser treatment or an in-clinic peel
Have unexplained spots assessed before trying to remove them. Different skin changes can look alike yet need different care. Discuss creams or procedures, irritation or pigment-change risks, and aftercare. Bring the names of products you use and explain when the problem began; not every pigmentation concern needs a procedure.