How to Reduce Dark Spots

A spot may be left behind after acne, eczema, a burn, or another injury. Sun spots tend to occur on repeatedly exposed skin, while melasma often forms symmetrical patches on the face and may be influenced by hormones and light. Tinea versicolor can change skin colour and may include fine scale. These patterns overlap, so colour alone does not establish a diagnosis.

Compare your concern with [Dark Patches On Skin](/symptoms/dark-patches-on-skin/), [Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation](/conditions/post-inflammatory-hyperpigmentation/), or [Melasma](/conditions/melasma/) to understand why the cause matters.

Use daily broad-spectrum sun protection, seek shade, and avoid picking or scrubbing. Keep acne, eczema, or other inflammation controlled, since repeated injury can create new pigment. Introduce only one gentle product at a time and stop if it burns or causes a rash. A clinician may discuss [Chemical Peel](/treatments/aesthetic-procedures/chemical-peel/), [Skin Brightening Treatment](/treatments/aesthetic-procedures/skin-brightening-treatment/), or [Picosecond Laser Treatment](/treatments/laser-and-energy/picosecond-laser-treatment/) after assessing skin tone, cause, and risk of further darkening.

Arrange a skin assessment if a spot is new and changing, uneven in colour, bleeding, crusting, persistently itchy, or unlike the surrounding marks. Seek prompt review for rapid change or a sore that does not heal. A diagnosis should come before cosmetic treatment when the pattern is uncertain.

Ask what pattern the spots follow, whether [Sun Spots](/conditions/sun-spots/) or [Tinea Versicolor](/conditions/tinea-versicolor/) is possible, which routine is suitable, and how recurrence will be reduced.