Dark Spots on the Temples: What to Know

The temples receive sunlight and may be exposed to friction from glasses, headwear, hair products, or repeated rubbing. A mark after acne, rash, waxing, or irritation can leave post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Symmetrical brown or grey-brown facial patches may fit melasma, while isolated sun spots tend to be more defined. Itch, scale, redness, or a rough surface points toward a different process and should be described during an examination.

Use a mild cleanser and moisturiser, avoid rubbing the temples, and review products that touch the hairline or glasses area. Apply broad-spectrum sun protection to the temples and surrounding exposed skin; hats and shade add protection. Do not use strong acids or unprescribed steroid creams near the eyes. Once the cause is clear, a clinician may discuss a chemical peel, skin brightening treatment, or picosecond laser treatment, with care tailored to your skin tone.

Arrange an appointment if the pigment is spreading, repeatedly irritated, scaly, painful, or not improving after the suspected trigger is removed. Seek prompt assessment for a mark that changes quickly, develops several colours, bleeds, crusts, or becomes raised. A temple location does not determine the diagnosis by itself.

Does the distribution suggest melasma, a sun spot, or pigment after irritation? Could my hair or skincare products be contributing? Which treatment is safest for the temple area and my skin tone?