I Have Dark Scars All over my Body from Pityriasis Rosea, How Can I Whiten Them

Question

I have dark scars all over my body especially on my front chest to tummy from pityriasis rosea.(almost like chicken pox but like hundreds of all size dark brown spots. I am Asian and have brown skin. How can I get rid of these nasty scars.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Our treatments use combination therapy to improve the epidermis and dermis for most deep scars. The options available for acne scars depend on the character of your scars, in terms of topography and contour. We see atrophic and hypertrophic acne scars, as well as scars that have hypo and hyperpigmentation. We begin each scar evaluation with an assessment of scar quality and subtype. Our main concern is rebuilding collagen and that is why we use a HIDEF protocol that includes combination therapy. Morpheus 8, scar subcision, fibrous release, fractional laser, CO2 laser, Thulium laser, PDL Vbeam laser, and fractional resurfacing can be used in addition to TCA Cross and chemical peels to further improve skin. Patients should start Melarase AM and Melarase PM for active hyperpigmentation. Always begin with a consultation to decide whether early subcision should be started.

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Randy Wong, MD · Answer

Inflammation from dermatologic, traumatic, or infectious causes can be unsightly and disturbing.  With time, much of the visible pigmentation will fade over 6 to 12 months.  However, I commonly see patients with intractable and long standing pigmentation that will not clear.  Look at underlying causes that may continue to stimulate inflammation and try to resolve the issue before seeking whitening by chemical or laser treatments.  Do not jump at quick fix treatments, as I have seen darker pigmentation occur from the treatments themsel\ves.  There are many products available, some better than others, but work with a physician who can take the time to get the results you want, not just write prescriptions to get you out of the office.

Laurie Jacobson, MD · Answer

It probably depends on how long ago you had the initial rash and how long it's been gone.  Typically, having what's called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation will eventually resolve (pigment that results from having a rash and the spots that remain) and is not unusual, especially in Asian skin.  However, if it's been more than a few months, treatment options include prescription strength bleaching creams or even laser treatments (Fraxel Dual would be my first choice).  Hope that helps!

Steven Hacker, MD · Answer

It sounds as if you are describing a post inflammatory reaction to whatever affected your skin. in this case you are attributing it to Pityriasis Rosea. I have never seen scars from this condition but suppose it is possible. Either way, not much to do but wait as it typically normalizes with time but also you should see a dermatologist to see if bleaching creams are an option.

I Have Dark Scars All over my Body from Pityriasis Rosea, How Can I Whiten Them

Answers (4)

Answer: Post inflammatory hyperpigmentation

Answer: Post inflammatory hyperpigmentation

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Everything you need to know about Scar Removal

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I Have Dark Scars All over my Body from Pityriasis Rosea, How Can I Whiten Them

Answers (4)

Answer: Post inflammatory hyperpigmentation

Answer: Post inflammatory hyperpigmentation

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Scar Removal

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.