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Black marks on forehead
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Skin & Hair Concerns
Question #11922
45 days ago
88

Black marks on forehead - #11922

Harsh

I am super worried because I've noticed these weird black marks on my forehead that just won’t go away! They kind of appeared out of nowhere a few months ago after I got a really bad sunburn, and I didn’t think much of it then. At first, I thought it was just from the sun, but now they seem darker and more prominent. I mean, it’s not like I’m throwing caution to the wind with sun exposure or anything, but ugh, I have tried a bunch of over-the-counter creams, and none seem to work. I feel like they might be some type of hyperpigmentation or something, but I’m not sure. My friends say it could be an allergy or irritation from products I’ve been using, and that’s possible. I really need to know, do these black marks on forehead ever go away? Seriously, will I be stuck with them forever? I’ve got a wedding to attend in a month, and I really don’t wanna feel self-conscious about this! Are the black marks on forehead something that needs more than just creams? Like, should I see a dermatologist, or are there really effective home remedies? I’m kind of lost here and could use some advice from you all.

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Doctors’ responses

Black marks on the forehead, especially ones that appeared after a sunburn, could be related to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). This is a common condition where dark patches develop after inflammation or injury, like with sun damage. Considering your previous sunburn, it’s quite possible this is a contributing factor. These marks are often more visible with lighter skin tones, but regardless, they’re frustrating when creams aren’t working as expected. PIH typically fades over time, but persistence varies from person to person and can take a while, sometimes even months to years without intervention. Your concern about using a variety of products might indeed play a role if there are ingredients causing irritation or further inflammation, potentially exacerbating the pigmentation.

While over-the-counter creams with ingredients like niacinamide or vitamin C can be beneficial, they may not be sufficient on their own for more pronounced cases. In-office treatments like chemical peels, microdermabrasion, or laser therapies provide more intense, targeted solutions and are particularly worth considering before events like weddings. Consulting a dermatologist will give you a more precise diagnosis and treatment plan, possibly incorporating stronger topical treatments or professional procedures as needed. Avoid excessive sun exposure and always use broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30, as that prevents further darkening and protects against future pigmentation issues.

Before any significant change in your skincare routine, patch test new products to rule out allergic reactions or irritations. Sticking to gentle, non-comedogenic formulas without harsh active ingredients can reduce the risk of irritation. Incorporating these strategies not only aids in managing your current situation but also supports the long-term health of your skin. It’s best not to delay seeing a dermatologist, as they can offer the most effective ways to tackle your hyperpigmentation woes and ensure you’re clear-skinned and confident at the upcoming wedding.

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