how to treat spots on face - #19591
I am worried about these spots on my face and need some advice. For a couple of months now, I’ve noticed small red and brown spots popping up, especially on my cheeks and forehead. At first, I thought it was just a reaction to a new moisturizer, but even after switching back to my old skincare routine, they haven't gone away. I’ve tried some over-the-counter creams that say they help with spots on face, but honestly, nothing has worked so far. I also started using sunblock religiously because I read that sun exposure can make them worse, but it seems like they’re still multiplying! Do I need to see a dermatologist or can I just figure out how to treat spots on face at home? I don’t really want to go for anything too invasive or expensive if I can avoid it. It's kinda frustrating because I feel like I've tried everything. Does anyone have tips or recommendations on how to treat spots on face effectively? Any specific ingredients or remedies work well? Would really appreciate any insights, I’m just kinda lost here!
100% Anonymously
No sign-up needed.

Doctors' responses
The spots you’re describing could be due to a variety of causes, ranging from benign conditions like post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or subtle sun damage to something more involved, like melasma or even seborrheic dermatitis. Identifying the exact cause is crucial for effective treatment, so seeing a dermatologist for a correct diagnosis is something you should consider. However, there are a few initial steps you can take at home. Since you’ve already started using sunblock, continue doing that religiously since UV protection is crucial to prevent pigmentation worsening. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with both UVA and UVB protection and an SPF of at least 30. Applying it daily and reapplying every two hours while outdoors can make a significant difference.
As for topical treatments, look for creams containing ingredients like niacinamide, vitamin C, or azelaic acid which are known for their skin-brightening and anti-inflammatory properties. Retinoids, which are available over-the-counter at lower concentrations, can also be useful but may initially cause dryness or irritation, so start with applying it every other night and monitor how your skin reacts. If irritation persists, it’s better to consult a dermatologist for alternatives rather than pushing through.
Exfoliation can also help, but be gentle—using a chemical exfoliant containing AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) like glycolic acid once or twice a week can aid in removing dead skin cells and improving the overall texture and appearance of your skin without the harshness of physical scrubs. While these steps can help with mild cases, if spots persist or worsen, see a dermatologist to rule out underlying causes and consider prescription treatments like hydroquinone or professional procedures such as chemical peels or laser therapy, which though more expensive, might be necessary for effective resolution.
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.