Andrew Campbell, MD

I'm sure that what you are describing is PIH (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation).

First, an SPF of 45 or 58 is not what you need. You need a sun BLOCK, not a sun SCREEN. A block contains micronized zinc oxide and / or titanium dioxide and truly blocks the sun's rays. This needs to be worn daily from sun up to sun down. I can't stress the importance of sun protection more.

Secondly, I have found that IPL or IPO (whatever that is) is inadequate in treating PIH. In the past, I have treated patient's with daily hydroquinone, 4% or 8% DAILY as long as it doesn't cause irritation. The tretinoin is helpful, but if irritation occurs, it would be the first thing I would tell you to quit using. Recently, we have been using BBL, or broad band light, a type of IPL from Sciton that seems to work much better than the older IPL we used to have. I treat PIH with BBL now and have good results.

Nothing will make the pigment disappear quickly. It is a combination of sun protection (the most important), hydroquinone, and possibly BBL, plus a fair amount of time (maybe 6 months), and your skin should be looking great again.