Help please.

[Sleepy466]

Dear Doctor,
Um...hello...I'm 15 years of age and am of Afro-Caribbean descent. I have a question based on the unwanted and unsightly black spots on my skin. Since I live in the Caribbean there is the large abundance of biting insects such as mosquitoes and since the age of 2 I've been getting many insect bites on my skin, some have cured and faded but many have not leaving black spots on my skin. Also, my skin is very irritable, contact with false jewelery (for example on a book I bought it included was a silver necklace and when I put it on it made a large and unsightly rash on my neck), certain plants, cats and animals in general and sometimes various foods, soaps and body washes causes my skin to have bumps and rashes and after they cure they leave dark marks or areas. Also I was born with eczema on my neck, the area behind my knees at the back of my legs and at the elbow joint in my arms. I have a long history of skin problems. The most troublesome is the constant dark marks on my skin...I've tried various medicines and raw cocoa butter...anything that would solve my problem but none have worked! And a doctor said as I get older they'll clear up but not by much so far and I have gotten more mosquitoe bites and since my invovlement in sports I have many drak scars on my legs and arms.I need help qith this problem, please, do any doctors have any suggestions?!?!

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hi,

Thank you for your kind words. I am happy that this was useful to you. Best wishes and God bless.

[Sleepy466]

Oh, thank you soooo much, yes, I've seen a dermatologist but all he recommended is a lotion that didn't help and I've had these on my skin for more than six months, actually for years, so I'm not sure if they'll EVER leave. But thank you for your advice, it was taken into much consideration, my parents and I have gone into your suggestion for seeing a dermatologist. THANK YOU AGAIN!!! I seriously thought no one would answer! Thank you!!!

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Without treatment, the dark spots usually takes about 6 months to resolve and for the skin color to go back to its normal color.  Topical treatments with acids and chemical peels can be effective but can take a while for the skin to totally revert to its normal color.  Microdermabrasion can also be done, but this might require several sessions.  Skin resurfacing using lasers is also an option.  

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your dermatologist. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.