Herpes simplex virus (HSV) infections in darker-skinned individuals present with painful blisters, typically around the mouth (HSV-1) or genital area (HSV-2), which may be less visually noticeable in darker skin tones. The infection can cause recurrent outbreaks, with symptoms including itching, burning, and fluid-filled lesions, and in some cases, complications such as ocular herpes or encephalitis. Treatment typically involves antiviral medications like acyclovir, valacyclovir, or famciclovir to reduce the severity and duration of outbreaks, as well as topical creams to relieve pain and discomfort.