What should you know about a dark spot under the skin on the face?

Facial pigment can appear after acne, irritation, waxing, or a rash. Melasma commonly presents as patchy brown or grey facial pigmentation that may become more noticeable with daylight or hormonal changes. A sharply defined spot on exposed skin may be a sun spot. Scale, redness, or a rough surface suggests that the issue may not be pigment alone. A mark beneath the skin that is raised, tender, or tethered should be examined rather than treated as a simple stain.

Use a mild cleanser and moisturiser, avoid picking and abrasive scrubs, and apply broad-spectrum sunscreen to exposed facial skin. Hats and shade can add protection. Pause new fragranced products if the area stings. Record its size, colour, texture, and any relation to breakouts or hair removal. A dermatologist may discuss a skin brightening treatment, chemical peel, or picosecond laser treatment after identifying the cause and considering your skin tone.

Book an assessment for a spot that changes quickly, develops an irregular border, has multiple colours, bleeds, crusts, or becomes a growing lump. Seek prompt care for marked swelling, pus, spreading warmth, or fever. A facial mark that remains stable can be reviewed routinely, but self-treatment should wait if the diagnosis is unclear.

Ask whether the pigment is consistent with melasma, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, or a sun spot; whether a dermatoscope is needed; and which products or procedures fit your skin. Ask how to manage irritation and what signs should lead you back for review.