Can I get rid of scarring and hyperpigmentation on my face caused by a burn from Veet wax strip? (Photos)

Question

I had a hot shower then used the Veet facial wax strips on my upper lip. My upper lip turned red then over night scabbed over. Now I know this was because my pours were open due to the hot shower. Anyway, now that the scab has gone my lip is incredibly dark and I have a line (scar) which goes diagonally under my nose to the corner of my mouth. It looks like I have a mustache and I am very insecure about it. Is there any gels, creams, or soap I could use to help with the darkness and scaring ?

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Our Hidef protocols for scar revision can address different types of scars, depending on your scar biometrics and characteristics. Protocols vary in duration based on the severity of your scars. 
Bad scars can manifest in many different ways, including pigmentation, thickening, and depression of atrophic scars. Thick scars are best treated in my practice with IIT, cortisone injections, pressure management, and laser. We recommend daily use of Plato’s Scar Serum to the scars to mediate scar hypertrophy. 
Hyperpigmented scars respond well to Melarase AM and Melarase PM creams. If the area is large, consider Luminase and Exfolase creams for the body. Hyperpigmentation PIH can also be treated with Q switch laser, PICO, chemical peels, and rapid scar exfoliation. PIE erythema scars are best treated with pulsed dye laser. 
Keloid scars are our specialization. We manage small and large keloid scars with excision, IIT, PRP, laser therapy, and scar modulation. Use Plato’s Scar Serum daily. 
Textural scars respond well to nanofractional RF and fractional laser to help improve surface texture. When combined with scar modulation, the results can improve dramatically. The most important variable is for you to choose a plastic surgeon with expertise in laser therapy using Hidef protocols. 
Best,  
Dr. Karamanoukian  
Realself100 Surgeon

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

This can be improved with a combination of Cosmelan lasers, Aerolase, microneedling/prp, skin lightening, peels, and skin care. Sun protection is essential. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a cosmetic dermatologist. Best, Dr. Emer

Laura Riehm, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and posting pictures.  It looks and sounds like you might have Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH).  We have been very successful using the PicoSure laser with the FOCUS and / or Flat Lenses eliminating hyperpigmentation with a series of treatments.  FOCUS lens treatments have the extra benefit of reducing the underlying scar tissue.  This is one of our go to treatments for patients older than 40 and worried about the signs of aging.  This laser is safe for all skin types.  Start with sunscreen every day!  Once you have treated your hyperpigmentation to your satisfaction, you will probably need a follow treatment every 6 to 12 months depending your level of re-pigmentation.  Best of luck.

Can I get rid of scarring and hyperpigmentation on my face caused by a burn from Veet wax strip? (Photos)

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Everything you need to know about Scar Removal

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Can I get rid of scarring and hyperpigmentation on my face caused by a burn from Veet wax strip? (Photos)

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Everything you need to know about Scar Removal

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