White dots long after sunburn?

This summer while on a cruise in the bahamas, I got a very bad sunburn, the first one I've ever had. It was red and peeled for about three weeks, on my chest, arms, and legs. However, the burn was worst on my chest and now, almost 3 months later, it is healed (it doesn't hurt) but there are white dots. They appeared when the skin peeled but I assumed they were temporary. They are all very tiny and clustered, gathered much like pores, and the surrounding skin is tan. This also happened slightly on my arms but it is very noticeable on my chest and is making me self conscious. Is there anything I can do for it, or has it been too long? Also, my tan has not gone away after the 3 months, is this normal? Will it ever return to it's natural pale state?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
It can be due to tinea versicolor. It is caused by an overgrowth of a yeast fungus and are found mainly on sun exposed areas. Factors that can cause the fungus to become more visible include high humidity and immune or hormone abnormalities.Treatment involves topical and oral antifungal medicines.

Most cases respond to over-the-counter products, which contain any of several basic ingredients: miconazole, tolnaftate, terbinafine,ketaconazole and clotrimazole.You can consult a pharmacist and get any cream or lotion containing these ingredients.

I hope it helps. Take care and regards.