What does black discolouration around the nose indicate?

 Hi,   There can be quite a few reasons for a dark ring around the nose like allergy, melasma, rash, reaction to some medications such as antiepiletic medications, pigment disorders, fungal infections, stress, some underlying health issues like SLE (systemic lupus erythematosus) etc.

Melasma is a common skin disorder causing skin discoloration on sun exposed areas of face. The patches are darker than your usual skin colour. It usually develops on the face and is symmetrical with matching marks on both sides of the face. Patches generally appears on the cheeks, forehead, bridge of the nose, chin etc.

The best treatment for melasma is prevention. You should avoid the sunlight and use daily sunscreen SPF 30. Treatment options are belching creams containing Hydroquinone, steroids like Hydrocortisone, Tretinoin Cream, chemical peels, laser, intense pulsed light therapy (IPL) etc.

Consultation should be done with physician for a thorough clinical examination and assessment. Skin biopsy from the patches will help to confirm the underlying causes for black discolouration.

Some cases of melasma can't be completely lightened. You might have to return for follow up visits and stick to certain skin treatment practices to reduce the risk of the melasma returning.

Take care. In case of any other query, knock me.