What should you know about clearing dark spots on the face?

A dark spot is extra pigment in part of the skin. It may follow acne, eczema, irritation, or an injury; this is called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Other patterns include melasma, sun spots, or a superficial fungal condition such as tinea versicolor. Colour, shape, symmetry, texture, location, and whether spots are changing help guide diagnosis.

Scrubbing, picking, or using irritating lightening products can inflame skin and deepen pigment. Facial pigmentation often fades slowly, and the cause may continue unless triggers are addressed. See [Dark Patches On Skin](/symptoms/dark-patches-on-skin/) for a broader overview.

Use broad-spectrum sun protection and reapply as directed, especially outdoors. Choose gentle cleansing and moisturising, and stop products that sting or cause persistent redness. A dermatologist may recommend a prescription pigment treatment or select a procedure such as a [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 your skin.

Do not apply strong bleaching agents, steroid mixtures, or unlabelled products to the face. Treatment choice depends on the diagnosis, skin tone, pregnancy status, sensitivity, and history of pigmentation after irritation.

Arrange a dermatology review for a new or changing spot, uneven border, several colours, bleeding, crusting, persistent itch, pain, or a sore that does not heal. Seek advice if pigmentation spreads quickly or appears with scaling, because infection and inflammatory conditions need different treatment.

Ask what diagnosis best fits the pattern, whether any medicine or product is contributing, how long a treatment trial should last, and how to prevent irritation. Discuss the risks of a peel or laser for your skin tone before choosing a procedure.