Melasma around the eyes: what to know

Melasma may create flat, brown or grey-brown patches on the upper cheeks, temples, forehead, or skin around the eyes. Light and hormonal influences can stimulate pigment. The colour is usually in the skin rather than the eye itself, and it should not cause vision loss, eye pain, or marked swelling.

Dark circles, rubbing, eczema, post-inflammatory pigment, and Sun-Damaged Skin can look similar. A dermatologist may examine the eyelids and surrounding skin, ask about allergies and cosmetics, and compare the pattern with Dark Patches On Skin or Uneven Skin Tone.

Protect the area with sunglasses, a hat, shade, and a sunscreen designed for use near the eyes; keep it out of the eye itself. Apply moisturiser carefully, avoid rubbing, and stop any product that causes burning or watering. Fragrance and harsh exfoliants are common sources of avoidable irritation.

Do not apply prescription pigment medicines or home peels close to the eyelids without specific instructions. A dermatologist may discuss Skin Brightening Treatment, Chemical Peel, Microneedling, or Laser Toning, but the eye area needs individual assessment and protective technique.

Seek urgent medical care for sudden vision change, severe eye pain, marked redness, or swelling that affects the eye. Arrange a dermatology review for a changing, bleeding, crusted, raised, or one-sided patch, or for irritation that does not settle after stopping a product.

Is the colour change in the eyelid skin or coming from another source? Could rubbing, allergy, or eczema be contributing? Which products are safe near my eyes? Should procedures avoid this area, and what symptoms would require an eye examination?