Dear Doctor
My skin is full of pimple spots … and I tried so many home remedies but that doesn’t work. Now my skin is darker and so much dry. Please help me.
Dear Patient
This condition is known as Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH).
The home treatment of PIH is as follows:
Daily Sunscreen
Apply sunscreen to your skin every day to prevent darkening of the hyperpigmented patches. Ensure that the sunscreen has a sun protection factor (SPF) of atleast 15 and that it is noncomedogenic (will not clog your pores). For example you can use EltaMD SPF 46 Sunscreen.
Use an Exfoliating Moisturizer
Use a moisturizer that contains AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) and/or BHAs (beta hydroxy acids). These gentle acid loosens the bonds between the dead, dark cells on the surface of the skin so that they fall off and reveal the brighter skin beneath.
You can use Clean and Clear Oil Free Moisturizer which contains salicylic acid.
Microdermabrasion for Acne
Microdermabrasion, which is also known as microderm or Parisian peel is a painless procedure which involves spraying the skin with fine crystals which are usually made of aluminum oxide. Gentle suction is then used to remove the dead and dark skin surface cells as well as the crystals.
Microdermabrasion for PIH
Microdermabrasion can be used for the treatment of the post inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) that develops after acne to clear up the discolorations.
Microdermabrasion for acne scars
Microdermabrasion can also be used for superficial acne scars since the exfoliation contributes to making them less apparent.
Microdermabrasion for Acne Treatment
Microdermabrasion is also used for mild acne to help unclog the pores. It can be used together with glycolic acid peels to help clear up acne faster. However, it can make the acne appear worse after the top layer of the skin has been removed.
Though it is a relatively safe cosmetic procedure with minimal side effects, persons who have are taking isotretinoin (Accutane) for acne or have taken it in the last 6-12 months have a small risk of developing scarring after microdermabrasion.
Adopt an Acne-Free Lifestyle
In addition, you should also adopt an acne-free lifestyle to ensure you do not develop breakouts by doing the following:
*Joining a smoking cessation program if you smoke cigarettes
*Cleaning your mobile phone with antiseptic wipes regularly
*Eating low glycemic index foods like whole grain bread, spinach, and tomatoes. To learn more read How to Treat Acne at Home.
Ask a Skin Doctor and get a Private Answer by Email
1.Take a picture of the skin, hair or nail condition
2.Click on the Buy Now button below to pay the consultation fee and download the Dermatology Questionnaire
3.Fill the Dermatology Questionnaire
4.Upload the filled Dermatology Questionnaire together with the picture using this contact form
