Treatment for Facial Brown Spots? Doctor Answers, Tips
Age Spots Treatment: Q&A
Ask a Question

Treatment for Facial Brown Spots?

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?

Tags:
age 25-34 brown spots hyperpigmentation pigmentation female
Comment on this
6 Doctor Answers | Asked by Serena in New York, NY
+5

Likely benign hyperpigmentation areas or benign growths

Have a dermatologist or plastic surgeon take a look. First be sure that the areas are not abnormal growths that require biopsy and treatment to prevent spread or turning into something worse. Likely there is no medical concern. If not, the hyperpigmentation spots can be from inflammation, hormones, sun exposure, age or heredity. Treatment methods include various chemical peels, liquid nitrogen, bleaching creams and various intense pulsed light/laser systems from miminally invasive to... more
+4

You likely have melasma...

...but since there are numerous conditions that can mimick melasma, I suggest you be evaluated by your local dermatologist.  Melasma, a genetic and hormone-related condition is worsened by sun exposure.  I would advise a daily moisturizer with SPF 30 or greater.  Another great alternative containing a tinted cover-up make-up and zinc oxide is a product called Colore Science Sunforgettables, available online. Besides strict sun protection, other interventions that can help: 1. hydr more
+3

Help is available for facial brown spots

This is likely due to the increase in estrogen along with the sun exposure. This is melasma and is difficult to treat, but not impossible. The least invasive way to treat brown spots is with skin bleachers like hydroquinone. A relatively new modality is Trilumina, which contains additional agents and is more effective. Finally, skin peels like the Vi peel, often in conjunction with microdermabrasion, may be effective. You may need to try several different modalities and several... more

You might also like...

Real Stories

Wanted to Remove Age Spots/brown Spots. Got Burned Instead - Michigan

I had a fotofacial 5 weeks ago. This was my 5th session (which alternated with...

View 20 related stories

Before + After Photos

Age Spots And Sun Damage IPL Treatment
View 15 Age Spots Treatment photos
+2

Melaquin AM and PM for Sun spots, melasma, hyperpigmentation and skin darkening

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. I would recommend the Melaquin AM and Melaquin PM creams as a starter.
+2

Brown spots

Can be brown spots but may be melasma related to the BCP's. Check it out with your doctor. Brown spots can easily be treated with IPL just as long as it is away from your eyes. You can also use hydroquinone products to remove them more slowly.
+1

Treating Facial Brown Spots

One of the most effective ways to reverse the effects of chronic sun damage to your skin is by using a combination of two prescription strength medications: tretinoin cream and 4% hydroquinone. Unlike the unsubstantiated claims made by over-the-counter skin care products, the results of using these creams are backed by real medical science. We recommend the Obagi Nu-Derm System which uses both tretinoin cream and hydroquinone to visibly lighten age spots as well as the fine lines and... more
Doctors will not see your comments on their answers. If you'd like to follow up, please go here to ask another question.

Comments (0)

Ask a Question

Welcome Back

Sign in with Facebook

Your information remains private and will not be posted without your permission.

Forgot your password?

Don't have an account? Create one now.

Join RealSelf

Join with Facebook

Your information remains private and will not be posted without your permission.

Please enter a valid email address
 Did you mean ?

By creating an account, you are indicating that you have read and accept the RealSelf Terms of Use.

Already a member? Sign In.

Retrieve your password

Enter your username or email address and we will send you a link to login.

Check your email

Check your email. We've sent you a link to reset your password.

Ok