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Treatments for Hyperpigmented Scars?

Is there something I can use to remove hyperpigmented scars and/or return skin to its natural color? I am an African American female, fairly light skinned, age 28. I suffered from Dermatillomania through out my teenage years and now that I am an adult, the condition is under control.

However, I have terrible scar damage on the face, arms and chest - breast area. The scars are flat, but are light in center and dark brown on the outsides, almost like an outline.

Asked 36 months ago by NJNena in Newark, NJ
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+3

Treating hyperpigmented scars

The treatment of hyperpigmented scars can be challenging. Moderation is often the best course, particularly early on in the treatment process especially in dark skinned individuals, First, it is key to use sun block to minimize sun exposure to the region of concern. Second, there are a number of skin care preparations that can address the inflammation associated with the hyperpigmentation as well as the darkening itself. Your physician can ask a local compunding pharmacy to mix up a... more
Ross A. Clevens, MD
Melbourne Facial Plastic Surgeon
+1

Hypopigmented and Hyperpigmented scar removal

This is a very interesting problem.  My expertise would predict that you will be more concerned about the hypopigmentation centrally than the hyperpigmentation around the periphery in two years.  Speak to a knowledgeable surgeon who can give your options for scar revision. 
Raffy Karamanoukian, MD
Los Angeles Plastic Surgeon
+1

Maybe a scar revision trial

You might try a scar revision on one of them to see how it does. This can usually be done under straight local in the office. If the healing is kind, you could treat other scars by revision as well. Best Regards.
John P. Di Saia, MD
Orange Plastic Surgeon
+1

Pigmented Scar Treatments

Hi NJNena, In the pictures you show on the site, we think that you need two different types of treatments. For darker marks, you will benefit from either hydroquinone bleaching creams, q-stitched lasers or both together. The lighter areas are more challenging and should be treated using Excimer lasers. This type of laser is commonly used for vitiligo repigmentation in patients with your skin type. Good luck.
Harold J. Kaplan, MD
Los Angeles Facial Plastic Surgeon
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