Hormonal spots on the face: understand, prevent and treat naturally

To understand these hyperpigmentations, it's important to identify their causes, including the role of hormones and aggravating factors like the sun. This allows for the adoption of appropriate solutions, whether natural or medicinal, to prevent their appearance and mitigate their impact.

In this article, discover everything about hormonal spots , their origins, the people most affected, and learn how to prevent and treat them effectively while respecting your skin.

What is a hormonal spot ?

A hormonal spot is a specific form of skin hyperpigmentation that results from an overproduction of melanin, the skin's natural pigment. This overproduction is directly influenced by female hormones such as estrogen and progesterone. Medically, these spots are often called melasma or chloasma , and are characterized by symmetrical brown spots located on the face, particularly on the forehead, cheeks, upper lip, and chin. Unlike brown spots related to aging or prolonged sun exposure, hormonal spots are closely linked to hormonal variations or specific hormonal treatments.

In common parlance, these spots are often referred to as the " mask of pregnancy " because they frequently appear during this period. However, they can also affect women taking the contraceptive pill or undergoing hormone replacement therapy. The color and depth of these spots vary depending on the type of melasma: epidermal, dermal, or mixed.

How to recognize a hormonal spot on the face ? 

Hormonal spots appear as brown or dark brown areas with blurred edges. They often appear bilaterally and symmetrically, creating a "mask" effect on the face. These spots are more common in women with olive or dark skin, although all skin tones can be affected.

They develop mainly on areas of the face exposed to the sun , such as the forehead, cheekbones, nasolabial fold and upper lip. Unprotected sun exposure is a trigger or aggravating factor in their appearance.

The symmetrical nature of the spots, their diffuse appearance and their close link with hormonal phases (pregnancy, taking the pill, menopause) allow them to be distinguished from other types of brown spots, such as solar lentigines or age spots. Note that these spots can fade partially in the absence of sun exposure, but without appropriate treatment or prevention , they risk persisting and even becoming more pronounced.

Why do hormonal pigment spots appear ?

The role of estrogen, progesterone, melanin

Hormonal pigment spots , such as melasma, are primarily caused by an increase in female hormones, including estrogen and progesterone . These hormones stimulate the production of melanin by melanocytes. Melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color, is then produced in excess under their influence. This process is often accompanied by increased skin sensitivity , which intensifies pigmentation, especially on specific areas of the face such as the forehead, upper lip, or cheeks.

These hormones therefore play a direct role in the activation of melanogenesis, thus promoting the appearance of hormonal brown spots.

Hormonal cycle, stress, pregnancy, menopause

Fluctuations in the hormonal cycle create a fertile ground for the development of hormonal pigment spots. Several factors, both bodily and environmental, interact to trigger or worsen this phenomenon. Often, these spots are associated with general bodily stress that disrupts the natural hormonal balance.

Here are the main causes related to the appearance of hormonal spots on the skin:

• Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy , where estrogen and progesterone play a key role, can lead to the famous pregnancy mask or centrofacial melasma.
• Taking contraceptive pills or hormone replacement therapy, which alter the hormonal cycle and stimulate pigmentation.
• Hormonal changes linked to menopause , a period when the skin also becomes more sensitive to the sun and aging .
• Physical and emotional stress , which unbalances the hormonal system by increasing certain stress hormones, thus influencing skin pigmentation.
• Regular sun exposure is particularly important because it activates the production of melanin already stimulated by hormones.

These different combined factors explain why hormonal pigment spots often appear in a context where a disrupted hormonal cycle is combined with unprotected sun exposure .

Who is affected and in what contexts ?

Adolescence (puberty)

During adolescence, puberty is accompanied by significant hormonal fluctuations that can influence skin pigmentation. In some young people, this period can lead to the appearance of pigment spots , particularly in girls, due to the rise in estrogen and progesterone. Although less common than in adults, these hormonal spots can appear as localized brown spots , often accentuated by excessive sun exposure.

Their appearance is sometimes part of a context of inflammatory acne , which can also promote post-inflammatory pigment spots .

Pregnancy and postpartum

Pregnancy is the most common context for the appearance of hormonal spots on the face, commonly called "pregnancy mask" or centrofacial melasma . Under the combined influence of hormones and unprotected sun exposure , these brown spots often appear in the second or third trimester, located on the forehead, upper lip, cheeks and chin. They can persist after birth, during the postpartum period , and then require specific care to reduce them.

This phenomenon more frequently affects women with medium to dark phototypes , who have a higher production of melanin. Strict sun protection is essential to limit their spread and intensity.

Perimenopause and menopause

Perimenopause and menopause also bring with them hormonal changes, including a gradual decrease in estrogen. This transition can alter skin pigmentation and promote the appearance or strengthening of age-related brown spots , often confused with hormonal spots.

The disrupted hormonal balance affects melanogenesis and the skin's ability to renew itself efficiently. In addition, during this period, the skin can become more sensitive to external aggressions, particularly sun exposure , which accentuates the formation of solar lentigines and pigment spots. Appropriate monitoring can prevent their intensification and improve the quality of the skin.

Natural solutions to prevent and reduce hormonal spots

Our tailored skincare routine

To prevent and reduce hormonal spots on the face, it's essential to adopt a gentle and effective skincare routine that respects your skin type while targeting pigmentation. Here are some recommended natural ingredients to incorporate:

• Aloe Vera Gel: Soothes skin, promotes healing and reduces hyperpigmentation.
• Damask rose hydrosol: natural lightener, it evens out the complexion and calms irritations.
• Roman chamomile hydrosol: anti-inflammatory, it helps reduce dark spots and soothe sensitive skin.
• Vegetable oils rich in vitamin E: such as rosehip oil or carrot oil, which stimulate cell renewal and lighten pigment spots.

Apply these treatments morning and evening , gently massaging the affected areas, always in addition to rigorous sun protection to prevent the spots from worsening.

Natural supplements recommended by MiYé

At MiYé, we encourage the use of natural supplements that work from the inside out to support your skin against hormonal pigmentation. Some of the most effective active ingredients include:

[MY] Regenerating Oil – The skin microbiome expert

A true skin bestseller, this light “waterlike” oil is formulated to:

• Soothe and regenerate sensitized skin,

• Boost the radiance of the complexion and prevent the signs of aging,

• Strengthen the skin barrier thanks to its complex rich in postbiotics, plant ceramides and patented oat extract.

💡 Its plus: can be used alone or mixed with your usual treatment to boost hydration and antioxidant protection.
👉 Visible results: 87% of users notice an improvement in the overall appearance of their skin.

[MY] Skin & Hair Essentials – Radiant Beauty from Within

This dual-action beauty supplement helps restore luminous skin and an even complexion while strengthening hair density:

• Provides all the necessary omega 3 EPA/DHA in a single pipette,

• Improves hydration of the skin and mucous membranes ,

• Reduces skin inflammation and dryness,

• Preserves skin density and fights dull complexion.

💡 Its plus: a 2-in-1 formula that can be ingested but can also be applied to the skin for an immediate healthy glow effect.

[MY] Happy Skin Pack – The after-sun radiance ally

In a limited edition, this duo pack combines topical care and ingestible oil for:

• Repair and soothe the skin after sun exposure,

• Naturally prolong your tan while preserving your complexion's radiance,

• Nourish and revitalize with a concentrate of antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and restorative active ingredients.

👉 Ideal in summer or after a holiday in the sun to avoid a dull complexion and prolong the beauty of your tan.

Develop a healthy lifestyle: diet, stress management, sleep, physical activity

Beyond topical care and supplements, a balanced lifestyle plays a vital role in preventing and reducing hormonal spots. To support your skin:

• Eat a diet rich in antioxidants: colorful fruits and vegetables, rich in vitamins C and E, and anti-inflammatory foods like turmeric or ginger.
• Manage stress effectively: meditation, yoga, or breathing techniques to limit its impact on the hormonal cycle and pigmentation.
• Ensure restful sleep: Good sleep promotes skin regeneration and hormonal balance.
• Practice regular physical activity: it improves blood circulation, skin metabolism and helps reduce hormonal imbalances.

These lifestyle habits perfectly complement natural care and supplements, thus optimizing the results on your skin pigmentation.

When should you consult a healthcare professional ?

It is essential to consult a healthcare professional, ideally a dermatologist, as soon as you notice certain signs concerning your hormonal pigment spots . Here are the situations that require a medical consultation:

• The brown spot quickly changes in appearance, whether in size, shape or color.
• The spot has irregular, unclear, or blurred edges .
• The stain's coloration is uneven , with several shades of brown or other colors.
• The spot bleeds , itches, or causes discomfort or pain.
• Pigmentation spots become numerous, symmetrical or evolve quickly despite natural care or sun protection.
• You have a personal or family history of skin cancer or serious pigmentation disorders.
• The spot does not respond to regular treatments, or worsens after using depigmenting products or other treatments.
• You want an accurate diagnosis to differentiate between melasma, solar lentigo or another form of pigment spot, and benefit from appropriate medical treatment (creams, laser, peeling, etc.).

A healthcare professional can perform a thorough examination, including using a Wood's lamp , and offer you personalized solutions to regulate melanin production without damaging the skin. Don't wait to consult if you have any doubts, because early treatment is often more effective in controlling the appearance and intensity of hormonal brown spots.

Why choose MiYé to support your skin ?

Values and guarantees: organic, vegan, natural, made in France

MiYé is a committed French brand that places respect for the female body and the environment at the center of its priorities. Designed specifically to support women at every stage of their hormonal variations , MiYé offers 100% natural , certified organic care products free from controversial ingredients or endocrine disruptors. All products are vegan and made from active ingredients derived from green biotechnology, integrating adaptogenic plants as well as pre- and probiotics to promote skin balance and hormonal cycles.

Made in France according to strict quality protocols, MiYé skincare products undergo rigorous medical control to guarantee their safety and effectiveness . The brand is also committed to an eco-responsible approach by donating 1% of its turnover to environmental associations, thus affirming that taking care of your body goes hand in hand with preserving the planet.

The main thing to remember

Hormonal spots on the face are often linked to hormonal imbalance and unprotected sun exposure. To prevent and reduce them naturally , adopt a gentle routine, use appropriate supplements and focus on a healthy lifestyle. This includes a balanced diet , good stress management, quality sleep and regular physical activity.

If, despite your efforts, the spots persist or evolve, do not hesitate to consult a health professional. By opting for a global approach and natural support like that offered by MiYé, you can regain a radiant, harmonious complexion and healthy skin. Take care of yourself and take action today for your skin's well-being .