What should you know about stubborn dark spots?

Dark patches may follow acne, eczema, injury or another inflamed area; this is called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Melasma often forms uneven patches on sun-exposed skin. Sun spots are usually distinct areas of pigment, while tinea versicolor can create lighter or darker patches with fine scale. Location, onset, surface texture, symmetry and recent products help a clinician narrow the possibilities.

Use broad-spectrum sun protection and reduce friction, picking and untested lightening products, because irritation can deepen pigment. Keep skincare gentle and introduce one new product at a time. A clinician may discuss skin brightening treatment, a chemical peel or picosecond laser treatment after checking the diagnosis and your tendency to develop post-treatment pigment. Treatment choice depends on depth, cause, skin tone, active inflammation and whether the trigger is still present. Improvement is usually gradual, so follow-up helps guide changes safely.

Book a skin examination for a spot that changes in size, shape or colour, develops a persistent sore, crust or bleed, or looks unlike your other marks. Seek prompt care for a rapidly changing or painful lesion. A sudden widespread change, severe itch or scaling also deserves assessment rather than cosmetic treatment alone.

What pattern does my pigmentation follow? Could inflammation, medication or sun exposure be maintaining it? Do I need treatment for an underlying condition first? Which option suits my skin tone? What irritation and aftercare should I expect?