Skin Discoloration on the Forehead

Discolorations on the forehead are not uncommon. In fact, it is likely you will develop one at some point in your life, either as a temporary discoloration caused by sun exposure, or through a more permanent darkening or lightening of the skin. Discolorations can be uncomfortable and embarrassing to some people, but in most cases there are ways to treat them.

Types

One type of discoloration that is temporary in nature is a darkening due to sun exposure. The forehead can receive direct sunlight, particularly if it is uncovered and unprotected, and if the exposure is too long it can lead to burning of the skin. This can cause reddening of the skin and later darkening as a result of melanin production. You can also develop white scaling and flaking of the skin as it heals and sheds damaged layers. Darkened spots can also occur either as freckles or larger spots of coagulated melanin, such as birthmarks, flat moles and age spots.

Dark Spot Treatments

Dark Pigmentation in the Elbows, Ankles and Inner Thigh

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Chemical peels are available to remove the top layers of your skin and try to replaced damaged pigment-producing cells with cells that function normally. It can also help to remove accumulations that occur naturally, as in the case of birth marks and liver spots. Other skin bleaching treatments can sometimes be effective. Dermabrasion, cryotherapy and laser therapy are all treatments that can help remove some skin discolorations, according to MayoClinic.com.

Sunburn Treatments

Sunburns heal on their own, but you can minimize damage to your skin -- as well as the pain experienced -- with some simple treatments. First and foremost, shield your forehead from the sun by wearing a hat and/or applying sunscreen. Also moisturize the skin at least twice a day, which can also be done with a moisturizing lotion or by applying a moisturizing sunscreen. Apply aloe vera gel can also soothe the sunburn, making it less painful and less likely to peel.

Considerations

Tyrosine & Vitiligo

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Most discolorations are harmless, but there are some cases where you should visit a doctor. If a skin discoloration like a flat mole appears to change tone, have it examined by a doctor to determine whether it may be a warning sign of cancer or other problems. If your skin blisters from overexposure to sunlight, you might also want to have your skin treated and cleansed.

Prevention/Solution

Some types of spots cannot be avoided, such as the development of liver spots. But many types of skin discolorations can be caused by sun exposure. Limiting your forehead's exposure to the sun by wearing hats, scarves or other head coverings, and using sunscreen to protect it when your head is exposed, can reduce your risk of skin damage both in the short term as well as over time 3.