Yvonne Knight, MD

Hi Miss 22 Year Old!

Although I cannot see your creases in person, I have several comments. Creases can be hereditary, and are seen the best when giving a big smile. However, on examination, you would be asked if you have allergies or itchy eyes. The lightest rub to your eyes with your fingers or hands will cause these wrinkles. If this is the case, your answer is easy - apply a good moisturizing lotion around your eyes twice a day, use a lubricating eye gel at least three times a day to soothe them and by all means, avoid the urge to rub them.

In more mature faces, botulinum toxin can be used in the muscles around the eyes to prevent wrinkling on smiling or to achieve eyes that look more wide open. Fillers can be used in the hollow area below the eyes or tear troughs. It does not appear as though you need either. I hope this is helpful!  

Discoloration is concern for many skin types. The more pigment you have, the more rebound and overproduction of melanin occurs after trauma or irritation.

Bleaching agents (hydroquinone) can be helpful but are to be used with caution. They easily cause excessive lightness, target rings around the area or a washed-out look.

Instead,  nurture the skin with a mild liquid cleanser and a ceremide lotion. At night, use  a good glycolic or lactic acid lotion on the areas to blend your skin tones back to normal. Be patient and consistent for success!

Color changes can be slow to correct themselves, even months to years in some cases. Approaching the discoloration with nurturing rather than aggression would be best in this sensitive area. For example, rub baby oil on the nipple areas and apply a warm cloth for 5-10 minutes each night. Then gently apply a good moisturizing cream. Your natural color should return! Don't forget to avoid what scarred you in the first place and be patient and consistent with your care.