Identifying an Unusual Forehead Mark
I'm a 19-year-old female without any prior medical issues, and I've recently discovered a round mark on my forehead after applying self-tanner to my face. I'm seeking your insights on what this could possibly be. The area doesn't feel distinct from the rest of my skin, yet the shape is decidedly circular. I might be imagining things, but there’s a slight pain associated with it. I have not bumped my forehead or experienced any injury, so I’m uncertain about this mark’s origin and would appreciate any information.
Answers (1)

8/8/2025, 11:20:36 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel concerned about a new mark on your forehead. Based on your description, the round mark accompanied by slight pain could be several things, but a few possibilities include a skin reaction to the self-tanner, a clogged pore, or even a mild infection such as folliculitis. Since the area feels similar to the rest of your skin and is not associated with any injury, reactions to topical products are a common cause.
Next Steps:
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Monitor the Mark: Observe the mark over the next few days. Take note of any changes in size, color, or pain level. This can help in identifying any trends or improvements.
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Gentle Care: Avoid picking at or irritating the area. Use a gentle cleanser without harsh ingredients, and avoid further application of self-tanner on the area until it resolves.
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Topical Treatment: You could consider applying a mild over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream to reduce inflammation, but only do this if you don't see any signs of infection like redness or drainage.
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Sun Protection: If you'll be outdoors, protect your skin with sunscreen to prevent further irritation or discoloration.
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Self-Observation: If the mark does not improve, worsens, or if you develop additional symptoms such as swelling or fever, consider looking for further evaluation.
Always prioritize caring for your skin gently and observing how it responds. If you have any specific questions or if anything changes, feel free to ask!
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