What should you know about melasma on temples?

Temple melasma appears as flat, uneven brown or grey-brown colour, sometimes extending toward the forehead, cheeks or hairline. Light reaches this exposed area during ordinary activities, and hair products, headwear or repeated rubbing may add irritation. Those factors can make the colour more noticeable without changing the skin’s texture.

A clinician checks the borders and surface and asks about timing, medicines, hormones and previous inflammation. A spot that is raised, scaly or changing needs a broader assessment rather than an assumption that it is melasma.

Cover the temples with sunscreen each morning, extending application to the hairline, and use shade or a hat outside. Cleanse gently and avoid fragranced or abrasive products that sting. Keep hair products off the skin where possible. A dermatologist can recommend a gradual topical plan and explain how to use it around the sensitive hairline.

If pigment persists, a clinician may discuss chemical peel, microneedling, laser toning or another brightening treatment. The choice depends on pigment depth, skin tone and prior reactions; irritation after a procedure can worsen colour. Related reading includes [Sun-Damaged Skin](/conditions/photoaging/) and [Chemical Peel](/treatments/aesthetic-procedures/chemical-peel/).

Arrange a routine dermatology appointment for a new or persistent temple patch when the cause is uncertain or home care is irritating. Seek prompt review if it changes rapidly, becomes raised, painful, crusted or bleeding. Contact the treating clinic for marked swelling, blistering or burning after treatment. These warning features call for examination rather than more brightening products.

Ask whether the hairline pattern fits melasma, whether a product or contact irritation may be contributing, and how to protect the temples from visible light. Discuss suitable topical options, procedure risks for your skin tone, aftercare, and the signs that should bring the review forward.