How to correct dark spots on the face

Short answer
Correcting dark spots on the face starts with identifying the cause and controlling sun exposure, followed by a tailored topical or in-clinic treatment plan.
This answers one question. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace an assessment by a licensed doctor.
At a glance
- First priority
- Diagnosis plus consistent light protection
- Possible causes
- Melasma, post-inflammatory pigment, sun spots, or tinea versicolor
- Treatment choice
- Depends on cause, skin tone, and pigment depth
What the spots may represent
Dark patches can follow acne, eczema, irritation, or injury as Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation. Melasma often creates broader, fairly symmetrical facial patches and may be influenced by light and hormonal changes. Sun Spots are usually distinct areas of pigment on exposed skin. Tinea Versicolor is a superficial yeast-related condition that can alter skin colour and may have fine scale. These patterns can overlap, so a diagnosis should come before strong lightening products or procedures.
Ways to improve uneven colour
Use broad-spectrum sun protection, reapply as directed, and add shade or a hat; daily light exposure can keep pigment visible. Choose gentle cleansing and stop products that sting or cause peeling. A clinician may recommend a prescription cream or select a Chemical Peel, Skin Brightening Treatment, or Picosecond Laser Treatment based on the diagnosis, skin tone, depth of pigment, and risk of post-treatment darkening. Introduce one change at a time and follow aftercare carefully. Scrubbing or using unregulated bleaching products can worsen irritation and pigment.
When to seek care
Book a skin assessment for a new, changing, bleeding, crusted, very uneven, or isolated dark spot, especially when it differs from nearby marks. Seek review if pigment spreads quickly, is accompanied by persistent scale or inflammation, or does not respond to a gentle routine.
Questions for your doctor
Ask what pattern and cause are most likely, whether any medicine or inflammation is contributing, and how long improvement may take. Ask how a proposed peel or laser will be adjusted for your skin tone, what irritation to expect, and how recurrence will be prevented.
Find care
General Clinics & Polyclinics in Abu Dhabi
That answer is general. If you want it applied to your own case, these are licensed general clinics & polyclinics listed in Abu Dhabi.
27 Ar Ruwwad St - Shakhbout City - MSH4 - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, Cigna, MetLife +20 more
Al Ruwais, Al Dhafrah
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, AXA, Cigna +16 more
Al Bahyah - Al Bahyah Old - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, Cigna, Allianz Care +18 more
Abu Dhabi
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, AXA, Cigna +27 more
Ordered by verification status and how complete each clinic's public record is, then alphabetically. This is a directory listing, not a ranking — Zavis does not rate or recommend providers.
A factual listing drawn from the DHA, DOH and MOHAP licence registers. It is not a referral, an endorsement, or advice that any of these providers is right for you.
Questions people ask
Can I remove facial dark spots by scrubbing?
Scrubbing can inflame the skin and deepen post-inflammatory pigment, so gentle care is safer.
How do I choose between a peel and laser?
A clinician should match the procedure to the pigment’s cause and depth and your risk of irritation or colour change.
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Medical disclaimer. This page is general health information, not medical advice, and it cannot diagnose you. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider about your own symptoms and treatment. In an emergency in the UAE, call 998 for an ambulance.