Forehead dark spots - #11784
I am really worried about these forehead dark spots that have recently appeared, like, outta nowhere! I mean, one day I was fine and the next, I looked in the mirror and there they were. I've tried to ignore them, but they just seem to get darker! It's super frustrating because I’ve always taken care of my skin and used sunscreen religiously. These forehead dark spots are also kind of uneven, like one spot is way bigger than the others, and I can’t figure out if I need to see a dermatologist or if it’s something that will just go away on its own. I thought dark spots were just for older people, ya know? I’m only 30! A friend mentioned it might be hormonal or could have something to do with sun exposure, but I’m not sure what to believe. And now I’ve been googling this on everything from skin care forums to medical sites, and I keep finding mixed info about how to treat forehead dark spots. Some say to use vitamin C serum, while others swear by chemical peels! Should I just try both or what? Anyone ever dealt with forehead dark spots like this? What actually helps? I can’t keep looking in the mirror and seeing these marks!
100% Anonymously
No sign-up needed.

Doctors’ responses
Dark spots on the forehead can indeed be frustrating, especially when they develop suddenly. It’s commendable that you’ve been diligent about sunscreen use, as sun exposure is a common cause of hyperpigmentation. Still, it seems there’s a chance other factors might be playing a role. One possible explanation is melasma, a condition that can appear as uneven, dark patches on sun-exposed areas, often triggered by hormonal changes or certain medications. Even at 30, hormonal fluctuations, including those caused by birth control or pregnancy, might contribute to these changes. Considering a dermatologist evaluation would be a prudent step, they can guide you more precisely based on an in-depth skin assessment.
In terms of treatment, various options can indeed help, but it’s important to understand that some might be more suitable for your skin than others. Vitamin C serums are popular because they’re antioxidants that help to brighten the skin and reduce dark spots over time. However, they should be introduced slowly to see how your skin reacts. Chemical peels done professionally can be effective in removing the outer layers of skin where pigmentation resides, however, they can also make your skin temporarily more sensitive to the sun and other irritants.
Over-the-counter products containing ingredients such as niacinamide or hydroquinone are often used for hyperpigmentation, but it’s vital to use them as directed as misuse can irritate or worsen the skin. Always patch test any new product. Since you’ve noted that one of your spots is disproportionately larger, this is indeed a reason not just to self-treat, but rather to get a professional opinion to rule out any more significant concerns, such as lentigo or other skin changes that should be regularly followed up on. In summary, while it might be tempting to try several remedies at once, saving yourself frustration means speaking to a professional, ensuring you get targeted advice for what will work best given your skin type and condition.
100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.
About our doctors
Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.