help! brown scars after pimple-like scabs everywhere

My 21 year old son has really been suffering with skin lesions which are scarring him by leaving dark pigmented round scars. (He is olive skinned). They start as tiny little pimples over hairs on his arm, face, and body. Then they get bigger and look like sores. Some group together and make a bigger lump. He is really embarassed. They almost look like cigarette burns when they heal. He is covered in darker spots now. The dermatologist gave him a cream and tablets but it hasn't made much difference. He was told it is very rare and genetic. Please help if you can! Thanks

[BhumikaMD]

Hi,

Scars due to acne are not uncommon. Treatments vary from melanin blocking agents combined with topical medications such as Retin A which causes the body to exfoliate the skin to rid the body of the hyperpigmentation while prohibiting new melanin production to laser treatments.  

Hydroquinone usually reduces or removes hyperpigmentations very effectively. It is a bleaching agent. Also always use sunscreen/sunblock as dark areas on exposure to sunlight turn darker still.

Wearing sunscreen and avoiding the use of abrasive cleansers and cosmetics for the face may help. Get enough sleep and eat a balanced diet everyday.

It would be advisable to consult a skin specialist for the symptoms and a proper clinical examination.

Let us know if you need any other information and post us on how he is doing.

Regards.