Skin Discoloration on the Face

The skin in the area under my mouth as well as around it has gotten darker. It all began when I tried an OTC acne treatment that irritated my skin. I scratched at it and the area I scratched got read and darkened. Well the area darkened and spread even after I realized what I was doing and stopped scratching. Not it has spread to the area around my mouth too. I took some pictures, hope they help.
http://i1130.photobucket.com/albums/m539/c7phantom/5bb044ad.jpg
http://i1130.photobucket.com/albums/m539/c7phantom/e2a8cb66.jpg

[Jasmina Jankicevic, MD, MSc, CCRP]

Welcome to the Dermatology Expert Forum! Thank you for your post!

Your description and pictures of affected skin indicate that you are experiencing post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (result of irritation and repeated physical trauma – scratching). In addition, it is possible that one or more ingredients in that OTC acne product are known to cause hyperpigmentation if skin is exposed to sun (not protected from UV rays) during treatment period and few weeks after.

There are quite a few topical OTC and prescription products, and in-office treatments that could be effective in treating hyperpigmentation like yours. However, you should talk to your dermatologist to get personalized treatment strategy, optimal for your skin type, status of the skin, overall health and medical history, etc.


Wishing You Optimal Health,
Dr. Jasmina Jankicevic