Dark Spots and Uneven Skin Tone: What to Know

Pigment may become more noticeable when skin produces extra melanin or when pigment is distributed unevenly. Sun exposure can deepen existing marks and contribute to sun-damaged skin. A flat brown patch on areas exposed to light may be a sun spot, while blotchy patches on the cheeks, forehead, upper lip, or jaw can occur with melasma.

A mark left after acne, eczema, a cut, or another irritation is often called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Colour can range from tan to brown or grey-brown, depending on how deeply pigment sits in the skin. New or uneven tone is a symptom rather than a diagnosis, so its pattern, timing, texture, and triggers matter.

Use broad-spectrum sun protection every day and reapply as directed, especially during outdoor activities. Shade, a hat, and covering clothing add practical protection. Keep skincare gentle: avoid picking spots, harsh scrubs, and products that sting, because irritation can create or deepen pigment.

A clinician can match treatment to the pattern and likely cause. Options may include a prescribed pigment-lightening product, a chemical peel, or a skin brightening treatment. IPL photofacial treatment may suit selected sun-related pigment, but it is not appropriate for every skin type or every mark. Improvement is gradual, and treating an underlying rash or acne is often part of preventing new spots.

Arrange a dermatology assessment for a spot that changes in size, shape, colour, or surface; develops repeated bleeding or crusting; becomes persistently painful or itchy; or looks noticeably different from your other marks. Seek prompt medical advice for a rapidly changing or non-healing lesion.

Book a routine review when pigmentation keeps returning, appears without an obvious trigger, or is affecting your wellbeing. Bring a list of skincare products and medicines, and mention pregnancy, hormonal treatment, recent inflammation, and the timing of sun exposure. Do not use an unlabelled bleaching product on a changing lesion.

Which cause best fits the location, colour, and pattern of my marks? Could a current skin condition or medicine be contributing? What daily protection and products are suitable for my skin tone? Would a peel, brightening treatment, or IPL be appropriate, and what preparation and aftercare would I need? How should I monitor a mark that changes?