skin darkning under belly button

[lolo]

I have pigmentation under by belly button but above my pubic area what can I do? What types of lightners can I use? is hydroquinone a good option

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,

Sorry I gave the answer to other query in the earlier post.

This darkening is due to hyperpigmentation of the skin with melanin pigment or due to chaffing which is caused by rubbing of the skin or with tight clothing.First of all wear light free flowing clothes and 100%cotton clothes. You can bleach the area or apply hydroquinone cream on the darkened area.If the symptoms are severe you can go in for laser treatment or chemical dermabrasion.Also get yourself evaluated for acanthosis nigricans if nothing helps.

Hope it helps.Take care and pls do keep me posted on how you are doing.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,

Without examination confirmation of a diagnosis is tough,but it can be a boil or sebaceous cyst.

Apply warm compresses and take some anti-inflammatory.Also keep the area clean by applying some antiseptic and avoid messing with it.Mostly boils and sebaceous cysts don’t require any treatment and go away on their own,but if it becomes painful,then antibiotics may be needed as it may be infected.Pls consult  a dermatologist in that case.

Hope it helps.Take care and pls do keep me posted on how you are doing.