Pigmentation

Hi.. I have patches of darkened skin on my upper lip and side of my nose. It seems to only appear when im in the sun- so the summer.. I have had one bout of it a year and a half ago.. and for some reason it has returned?? So therefore i am presuming this is not skin damage but possibly hormonal, too much estrogen?? Is this right? Is it Melasma? I have easily tanned skin so i know i produce a lot of melanin but this is slightly embarrassing.. Is there any herbal remedies or advice you can give? Will this go away again? I am wearing SPF 70!

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,

From the symptoms it can be melasma. It is caused by hormonal changes, which stimulate a temporary increase in your body's production of melanin. 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 doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing