Over the last 1-2 years, I have developed two brown patches under my eyes, one large patch on my forehead and one on the top of my nose. After being told this may be caused by starting oral contraceptives 2 years ago, I stopped taking them about 6 months ago but not have seen the brown patches fade. I'm 29 and don't get much sun except an annual cruise and I always wear a hat and sunscreen on those trips. I wear an SPF15 sunscreen moisturizer every day. What are these, and is there anything I can do to get rid of them?
Melasma, hyperpigmentation, and sun spots are difficult to treat as there are many factors that contribute to the condition. Melasma can be caused by hormones, genetics, inflammation, and sun damage.
Treatment includes topical creams, IPL, avoidance of the sun, and discontinuation of exogenous estrogen.
