black skin on forehead - #14278
I am really concerned about something that's been happening with my skin. Lately, I've noticed this patch of black skin on my forehead. At first, I thought it was just a tan from being outside too much, but it’s not fading at all, and it almost feels a bit rougher compared to the surrounding area. I've tried exfoliating, but that just seems to irritate it more. I did some research and found out that black skin can sometimes react differently to various conditions, but I'm also worried it could be something more serious like a skin condition or even a symptom of something internal. I used to have pretty clear skin, and this changes feels really frustrating and kinda embarrassing. Has anybody dealt with black skin on forehead like this before? Should I be worried? I want to understand if this could be a sign of anything serious or if it's just one of those skin quirks that happens sometimes. I've heard that people with black skin might have different issues, what do you guys think? I don’t want to just ignore it and hope it goes away. Any advice would be great!
100% Anonymously
No sign-up needed.

Doctors’ responses
Seeing a patch of black or darkened skin on your forehead can be concerning, especially if it’s new and not behaving like typical pigmentation changes. While occasional darkening of skin can occur from sun exposure, aging, or other benign causes, it’s important not to dismiss it without further evaluation, particularly if you’ve noticed changes in texture or irritation. In cases where the area feels rough or exfoliation leads to irritation, it could be a sign of something like seborrheic keratosis, a non-cancerous skin growth, which is more common in older adults regardless of skin color. However, it’s also essential to consider conditions like melasma, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, or even lichenoid dermatitis, which can present differently in individuals with darker skin tones.
Some skin conditions could indeed reflect underlying systemic issues, so it’s important to pay attention to any associated symptoms like changes in the rest of your skin, new skin lesions, itchiness, or any systemic signs such as fatigue or weight change. If the discoloration persists, evolves in appearance, or continues to be problematic despite personal care, it’s wise to consult a dermatologist. They can perform a physical examination, possibly a biopsy if needed, and rule out other conditions like acanthosis nigricans, which can sometimes signal insulin resistance or other endocrine disorders. For home care, avoid harsh exfoliants and consider a gentle cleanser, moisturizing with non-comedogenic products could also help prevent further irritation. Use broad-spectrum sunscreen daily to protect the area from further darkening. Remember, early evaluation leads to better outcomes, so seeking professional medical advice would be prudent, ensuring any necessary treatment is started promptly.
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.