Question: I am four months pregnant and have just started developing dark patches under my eyes and around my mouth. What are they? How can I remove them? - Hannah, Belfast.
Answer: I think what you're describing is chloasma, a skin discolouration that is very common during pregnancy. The symptoms of chloasma are exactly as you described; patches of darkened skin that can appear on the face.
Don't worry, chloasma won't last forever! In most circumstances these dark patches disappear a few months after giving birth. However if you want to try and fix the problem now, there are a few things you can do to prevent and get rid of chloasma. The first is to eat foods high in folic acid (dark leafy greens, beans, asparagus, sunflower seeds and Marmite), as studies have shown that there is a link between folate deficiency and hyperpigmentation. The second is to wear a good sunscreen and try to stay out of the sun as much as possible, as UV exposure can intensify hyperpigmentation.
Finally, try using a skincare product designed to treat pigmentation. The best product I've used is the Antipodes Apostle Skin-Brightening & Tone-Correcting Serum (£42.00 Selfridges / $66.00 hipapotheca.com). It is certified organic, making it perfectly safe to use during pregnancy!