Dark skin spots on the face: what to know

A healed pimple, scratch, rash, or cosmetic reaction can leave post-inflammatory pigmentation. Sun exposure can make these marks more noticeable. Active acne may include red or tender bumps before a darker mark appears; read more about [Acne](/conditions/acne/). A flat mark is different from a raised, scaly, bleeding, or crusted lesion. Facial skin may react to fragranced products, harsh exfoliants, or frequent picking, so the history matters as much as the colour.

Use a gentle cleanser, moisturiser, and broad-spectrum sunscreen suited to your skin. Avoid picking, abrasive scrubs, and introducing several active products at once. Stop a product that burns or causes a rash. A dermatologist can check whether [Folliculitis](/conditions/folliculitis/) or another inflammatory condition is contributing and choose treatment that limits further irritation.

Seek assessment for a spot that changes in size, shape, or colour, develops an irregular border, repeatedly bleeds, forms a persistent sore, or becomes markedly different from nearby marks. Arrange a routine appointment when pigmentation keeps returning, follows a new medicine or product, or does not improve after the trigger is removed.

Ask what is causing the pigmentation, whether any current product should be stopped, which sunscreen and treatment fit your skin, and how to avoid irritation while treating acne or dark marks.