Minocycline-Induced Hyperpigmentation: What to Know

The colour may be blue-grey, brown or slate-like and can affect areas exposed to sun, sites of previous inflammation, scars, nails, gums or other tissues. The pattern and timing help a clinician distinguish a drug-related change from post-inflammatory pigment, melasma or another cause of [Dark Patches On Skin](/symptoms/dark-patches-on-skin/). The colour may fade slowly after the medicine is changed, but the course differs between people.

Do not stop a prescribed antibiotic without discussing the infection or inflammatory condition it treats. Contact the prescriber with photographs, the date the colour change began, the dose history and any changes involving the eyes, mouth, nails or vision. Use sun protection and avoid harsh bleaching mixtures. Once the cause is clear and the medicine plan is settled, a dermatologist may discuss hydroquinone treatment, a chemical peel, skin brightening treatment, IPL photofacial or picosecond laser treatment. These procedures can irritate skin or alter pigment, so selection and test planning matter. Explore [Hydroquinone Treatment](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-hydroquinone-therapy/), [Chemical Peel](/treatments/aesthetic-procedures/chemical-peel/), [Skin Brightening Treatment](/treatments/aesthetic-procedures/skin-brightening-treatment/), [IPL Photofacial](/treatments/laser-and-energy/ipl-photofacial/) and [Picosecond Laser Treatment](/treatments/laser-and-energy/picosecond-laser-treatment/).

Seek prompt medical advice for new eye or vision changes, yellowing of the skin or eyes, widespread sudden darkening, a blistering rash, facial swelling, breathing difficulty, or severe headache. A changing or bleeding pigmented spot also needs direct examination rather than cosmetic treatment.

Ask whether the colour pattern fits minocycline exposure, whether an alternative medicine is appropriate, whether any internal tissues need examination, and which pigment treatment is safest for your skin tone.