Choosing treatment for faded dark spots

A dark patch is a visible symptom rather than a single diagnosis. Melasma often has patterned facial pigmentation; post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation follows a rash, injury, or breakout; sun spots are linked with cumulative exposure; and tinea versicolor may produce lighter or darker patches with fine scale. These patterns need different approaches. Colour, scale, texture, distribution, medicines, and recent inflammation help a clinician choose safely.

Use daily broad-spectrum sun protection and gentle skincare while the cause is assessed. Avoid picking, vigorous exfoliation, and unlabelled bleaching products. Depending on the finding, a dermatologist may discuss skin brightening treatment, a chemical peel, or picosecond laser treatment. Active infection or inflammation should be addressed before a cosmetic procedure. Introduce products gradually, follow aftercare exactly, and report persistent burning, swelling, blistering, or a worsening patch.

Book an assessment for a new unexplained patch, rapid change, bleeding, crusting, pain, marked itch, or a lesion with an irregular outline. Seek care sooner when patches are spreading with scale, because an infection or inflammatory condition may need specific treatment rather than pigment fading alone.

What is causing the colour change? Is there scale or inflammation that needs treatment first? Which option is suitable for my skin tone and medical history? How will we protect against irritation and recognise a concerning change?