What causes dark patches or discoloration on forehead or face?

Dark patches or discoloration on the forehead and face are often caused by a skin condition called melasma (also known as chloasma). Melasma occurs when areas of the skin produce too much melanin, the pigment that gives your skin its color. This results in uneven, darker spots, particularly on sun-exposed areas like the forehead, cheeks, and above the upper lip.

Some common causes of melasma include:

• Sun exposure: Ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun stimulate melanin production, which can lead to darker patches, especially if you’re not using sun protection.
• Hormonal changes: Hormonal fluctuations, such as those during pregnancy, the use of oral contraceptives, or hormone replacement therapy, can trigger melasma.
• Genetics: Melasma is more common in individuals with a family history of the condition.
• Medications: Certain medications, such as those that increase sensitivity to sunlight, can also lead to melasma.
• Cosmetics: Some cosmetic products can irritate the skin and make melasma worse.

Melasma is more common in women, but it can also affect men. The condition is not harmful, but many people seek treatment for cosmetic reasons. Treatments include topical creams like hydroquinone, chemical peels, and sun protection strategies to help reduce the appearance of dark patches.

It can take many months to see an improvement in dark spots on your forehead or face. Follow up with your healthcare provider to learn more about what to expect from treatments for melasma.