Will Retinol help heal burn marks and discoloration? Please help (Photo)

Question

I've been using retinol overnight for large pores and blackheads, but I have a burn mark in the area that hasn't entirely faded from a failed DIY chemical peel a year ago. I wash once daily with Cetaphil. Photos are attached showing the skin and discoloration. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. I've suffered horrible psychological effects from acne and scars for nearly a decade.. I do intend to see a professional within the next few months. I'm willing to spend thousands for a procedure.

Amy Klein, DO · Answer

Retinol should help. Maybe try a higher strength. Avoid the sun by wearing sunscreen at all times and a wide brimmed hat. Hydroquinone or high quality skin lighteners could help as well. If you are using over the counter topical, consider using professional pharmacy grade or prescription products.  Laser resurfacing or Microneedling can help with acne scars and improve texture. Best of luck. Be patient.

Narin (Joe) Apisarnthanarax, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. It appears you have some mild PIH ( Post inflammatory hyperpigmentation ) which usually improves over time. Using a prescription skin-lightening cream along with retinol will help lift the pigment at a faster rate.  Use of a SPF30 or greater sunscreen is also important to reduce the effects of sun exposure on the area of PIH.  There are also treatment options available to speed up the process including in-office chemical peels and laser treatments. I recommend seeing a professional before using any products on your own. Best of luck!

Shlomit Halachmi, MD, PhD · Answer

Hi Lee,
Based on the photos, I don't think the hyperpigmentation (brown mark) is that bad!  But - beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and you are concerned about it.
Treatments that are available that could be helpful, and which you may want to consider:
For the hyperpigmentation:
-First, and not optional - use sunscreen.  Every exposure to sun will trigger a small amount of darkening.  Use SPF 50 or higher, avoid direct sun exposure during peak hours, and do not go to a tanning salon.
-Ask your provider what they think about treating with prescription strength hydroquinone (4%).  This product reduces the formation of new pigment.  It will not necessarily lighted the pigment that is there, but as that fades, you will not be making any new pigment to darken it further.
-Be patient - HYPERpigmentation always fades - just slowly.  On the positive side: you did not have the opposite reaction, which is a white patch after the burn.  HYPOpigmentation does not always resolve, and is much more noticeable.

For the pores:
-You are already using retinol.  Ask your provider whether you would do well with prescription-strength products, like Retin-A.
-Consider device-based approaches, like Fraxel.  These heat the collagen and cause some skin contraction, which can reduce pore size.  Be sure to find a reputable provider in your area!

Will Retinol help heal burn marks and discoloration? Please help (Photo)

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Will Retinol help heal burn marks and discoloration? Please help (Photo)

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