What should you know about dark blotches on skin?

Flat brown marks can remain after acne, eczema, bites, or injury as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Melasma often appears as larger, uneven facial patches and may be influenced by hormones and light. Sun Spots are usually distinct areas of accumulated pigment on exposed skin. Tinea Versicolor can cause lighter or darker patches with fine scale, often on the trunk. A clinician will look at texture, borders, distribution, scale, itch, and whether the colour is changing.

Photograph the area in consistent light and note when it began, new products, medicines, hormonal changes, sun exposure, and preceding inflammation. Use gentle cleansing, moisturiser, and daily sun protection; avoid picking and harsh bleaching mixtures, which can worsen irritation. Treatment may involve managing the underlying condition first, followed by a tailored topical or in-clinic approach such as Chemical Peel, Skin Brightening Treatment, or Picosecond Laser Treatment. The safest choice depends on diagnosis and skin tone.

Book a dermatology review for a blotch that is rapidly changing, bleeding, crusting, persistently painful, very itchy, or unlike your other marks. Seek earlier assessment if new patches appear with fever, widespread blistering, facial swelling, or breathing symptoms. Do not treat an undiagnosed changing mark with a cosmetic peel or laser.

What pattern does this pigmentation follow, and is infection or inflammation present? Which ingredients or procedures suit my skin tone? How should I protect the area from light, and what would make you reassess it?