non healing insect bite scar

[JAC348]

I have seen a dermatologist a year ago with insect bites that has not completely healed but has turned into a hyperpigmented scar. It is still itchy and has now become numerous on my extremities, given my exposure to a place with  mosquitoes and gnats..I have tried very high potency topical corticosteroid such as halobetasol, betamethasone and clobetasol with some help but after 2 weeks of  treatment, comes back itching and non healing.The dermatologist told me about my hypersensitivity to insect bites and that there is nothing he can do different  treatment wise, Instead he prescribe hydroquinone 8% with 4% corticosteroid, obviously with no response and even has worsened as the side of the scar became hypopigmented. I was wandering if  there is cosmetic derm treatment that can eradicate this. scars. It is so bad that my son told me he can do "connecting dots."

[JAC348]

I will be looking for a good cosmetic dermatology soon to see which is the best  option suggested. Unfortunately, what is being done is simply superficial which is great for what I want to happen. Though I still have to deal with the fact that I have hypersensitivity to insect bites plus  I am the kind of human being that may have a peculiar smell that attracts mosquitoes and gnats. Thanks.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Such hyperpigmentation may require treatments with acids and chemical peels can be effective but can take a while for the skin to totally revert to its normal color.  Microdermabrasion can also be done, but this might require several sessions.  Skin resurfacing using lasers is also an option.  

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.

[JAC348]

Thanks for you advise- It saved me a dermatol. consultation fee . Laser surgery and the most cost efficient silicone gelpads would likely be an option.

Yes, I was told this skin condition can get worst given exposure to the insects. I may have to make DEET  as my routine skin care product.
Thanks again.

[Angebelle]

I can sympethize with you, because I'm hypersensitive to insect bites too.  As you're aware, the southeast is full of these blood-suckers!  I'll sustain a red welt on my skin for up to a week, sometimes forming into a small bruise, after a simple mosquito bite.  What's even more troublesome, is that I attract them more than anybody I know.  I have to use bug spray early spring through late fall.  I'm fortunate for the time being that they haven't led to scarring.  

There's three treatments that you may want to check out through your dermatologist depending on the severity:

Laser surgery: A technique that involves using a beam of high-energy light to cut away the upper surface of the skin. The procedure is very precise, although the laser focus can be adjusted to resurface larger areas. It also stimulates both blood supply and collagen production - the support network for skin tissue. Just be aware that it can take about 10 months for collagen to regenerate, so don't expect to see the finished results until then.

Dermabrasion: 'Surgical sandpapering', using specialist equipment and often performed under a general anaesthetic. The aim is to remove the scarred surface of the skin, so it can be painful and result in temporary scabbing.

Silicone gel sheets: Waterproof and flexible sheets of silicone gel that can be cut and shaped to fit the affected area and help to soften scars and reduce any redness.

However, these treatments aren't going to help you in the long run since they don't offer a way to combat the cause.  Say you get more insect bites, you'll have to go for more treatments, and that can be a costly endeavor.  Good luck!