AskDocDoc
/
/
/
dark patches on face female
FREE!Ask Doctors — 24/7
Connect with Doctors 24/7. Ask anything, get expert help today.
500 doctors ONLINE
#1 Medical Platform
Ask question for free
00H : 40M : 33S
background image
Click Here
background image
Skin & Hair Concerns
Question #17881
75 days ago
115

dark patches on face female - #17881

Tara

I am 34 years old and have been dealing with these dark patches on my face for like the past year or so. At first, I thought it was just a tan, but now I realize it’s not going away. They mostly show up on my cheek areas, and it’s kinda embarrassing because no amount of makeup seems to cover them. I never had issues with my skin before it was always clear, you know? I tried all sorts of creams from brightening serums to natural remedies like lemon juice, and honestly, nothing works! My friends say it could be melasma or something, but I'm not sure. I did see a dermatologist once, and she prescribed some strong cream, but I felt like it made my skin worse. I read that sun exposure can make dark patches on face female worse, but I always use sunscreen. Could stress be a factor? Or maybe it's hormonal? It's frustrating because some days they're lighter, but then they get dark again! Anyone else dealing with dark patches on face female and what worked for you? I just want my skin back to how it was. How long does this usually last? What are some good treatments?

FREE
Question is closed
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential.
No sign-up needed.
CTA image asteriksCTA image

Doctors' responses

Dark patches on your face can indeed be frustrating, especially when they persist despite your efforts. It sounds like you might be describing melasma, which is a common skin condition characterized by dark, discolored patches, often on the cheeks, forehead, and upper lip. Melasma is often triggered or worsened by sun exposure, so your daily use of sunscreen is a crucial step. Ensure the sunscreen is broad-spectrum, with at least SPF 30, and apply it generously every couple of hours when outdoors. Hormonal changes can also influence melasma, so if you’ve noticed any shifts in your menstrual cycle or if you’re using hormonal birth control, these could be contributing factors. Stress, while not a direct cause, may exacerbate the condition due to its impact on hormones. The fact that you’ve seen a dermatologist is great, albeit it’s unfortunate the prescribed cream aggravated your skin. Some treatment options include topical hydroquinone, tretinoin, or corticosteroids, which your dermatologist might adjust depending on your skin’s reaction. If topical treatments aren’t effective alone, chemical peels or laser therapy might be recommended, but these should be performed by experienced professionals to avoid worsening pigmentation. These treatments can help, but it’s critical to be patient as melasma can be a chronic condition, sometimes requiring long-term management. Avoid any DIY remedies that can be too harsh or irritate the skin, like lemon juice. Instead, consider incorporating products with niacinamide or azelaic acid, which can be effective and are often better tolerated. Overall, regular follow-up with your dermatologist will be essential to monitor progress and tweak your treatment plan if necessary. If stress management might be beneficial, strategies like meditation or exercise could also support overall well-being.

16256 answered questions
87% best answers
Accepted response

0 replies
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7,
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.


Related questions