Hydroquinine

[zerxa08]

Hi Doctor. I've been using Hydrocortisone and Iodoquinol 1% around my mouth for about 3 months now. I have hyperpigmentation from eczema, and I am African American. I notice a very small difference. My question is when the skin does lighten, should I stop using the cream to avoid lightening too much? Thank you.


This discussion is related to Hypopigmentation After Pityriasis Rosea.

[zerxa08]

Hi Doctor,

Well, the Hydrocortisone and Iodoquinol 1% dried out the skin around my mouth, and I suffered a terrible outbreak. Luckily, I had an old RX for Alclometasone (I forget the non-generic name), and it's helping. I plan to use it 2x a day even after the outbreak is over.

My question to you is will this steroid thin the skin around my mouth over time? In this case, I want it to because of the scarring.

As always, thanks.

[zerxa08]

Yes, I was born with atopic eczema. Years and years of rash and heal over and over (I'm 44 years old). I don't use hairspray so that's a good thing. And I haven't tried the vitamin E cream yet. I'm starting over with a new dermatologist, so I will mention it. And I will check out that website. This is a great service.

[Vanessa Lacuesta]

Hi

If you use hair spray then yes, this may be contributory as your skin may react to the hairspray. You may start using a mild Vitamin E cream over the areas instead. Have you tried this before? Choose products which are natural and hypoallergenic .

Also, lichenification seems to be associated with chronic irritation or scratching of the area. The irritation thickens and dries up the skin. So moisturizing the areas is the key here. Avoid using astringents and other abrasive skin products as they may only aggravate the problem.

Here is a url you may want to check:

http://lesstoxicguide.ca/index.asp?fetch=personal

[zerxa08]

Thank you. I mainly use Vaseline on my face. But could my hair products be causing a problem? Also, I just found a new name for what my mouth looks like:  lichenification. Can you recommend something else to try to smooth out the corners that I can discuss with my doctor? I'm so glad I stumbled across this website!

[Vanessa Lacuesta]

Hi

Yes , also inform your physician prescriber about the medications or products you intend to use. Your previous history of perioral dematitis may suggest that you may be reacting to some of these products. Perioral dermatitis is also due to frequent use of creams and lotions over the face. Use a good and hypoallergenic sunscreen also.

[zerxa08]

No. Maybe I should find one that's not irritating. I will be in the sun a fair amount this summer. Thank you for your response!

[Vanessa Lacuesta]

Hi

I understand your concern. Hydroquinone should be used with your doctor's supervision. Yes, when you see desired results it is best to minimize its use and gradually stop it. I suggest that you also discuss this with your physician so you may be advised appropriately depending on your skin condition.

Are you using sunscreen for your face?