Treatment for Facial Brown Spots?

asked 2 years ago by Serena in New York, NY
Latest answer by Mitchell Schwartz, MD
Question viewed 12,132 times
Tags: age 25-34, female, brown spots, hyperpigmentation, pigmentation

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?

6 answers to Treatment for Facial Brown Spots?

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

David J. Levens, MD
Coral Springs Plastic Surgeon

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

Bryan K. Chen, MD
San Diego Dermatologist

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

Scott E. Kasden, MD
Dallas Plastic Surgeon

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.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD
Los Angeles Plastic Surgeon

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.

Steven Wallach, MD
Manhattan Plastic Surgeon

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

Mitchell Schwartz, MD
South Burlington Dermatologic Surgeon

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