Hyperpigmentation

[Medsmith]

I've had a truly hideous sun damage/hormonal brown hyperpigmentation problem on my face for 8 years now. The worst part is that my acne, impetigo and chicken pox scars are snow white and so the total effect is terribly uneven and very, very obvious - I feel like a very ugly Smartie box.
So many dermatologists, so much sunblock, so many prescribed peroxide creams and absolutely no permanent result. Temporary, minor fading is the extent of efficacy.
The condition has caused me such poor self-esteem that it has driven me to consider suicide. I am too afraid to leave the house or let anyone see me without half and inch of thick foundation. For this reason, I will never have the confidence to have a partner.
I want to have chemical peels or laser treatment or something and NO ONE will help me or advise me for fear of not being able to help. I just want to fade it back a bit. I've long ago stopped hoping for a cure.
PLEASE tell me what to do.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
It can be due to melasma face. People with darker complexions are more prone to this condition than people with lighter skin.

Treatment options include treatment with vitamin C and hydrocortisone, peel with carbon dioxide snow and alexandrite and ND-Yag Q-Switched laser treatment preceded by a hydroquinone-based application. Please discuss these options with your dermatologist.

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.

[bandit1305]

I've never responded to anyone of anytype of forum but saw your post.  I too had sundamage/hormonal brown.  I just finished by 4th treatment and although it was $135.00 per treatment it got all the brown out but not the red.  I'm done dishing out money but its much better.  It was a lazer treatment - I can get the exact name if you like.  I also use a great makeup by Estee Lauder that provides maximum coverage and evens out the skin tones.  Don't give up - you can find someone to make it better.  The creams never worked for me either.  My email is ***@**** if you want to email me.