How do I remove dark spots on leg caused by mosquito bite? Would a Chemical Peel along with Laser help? (photo)

Question

I was born in Jamaica and I have very sensitive skin. When I lived in Jamaica I got bitten quite often by mosquitos and the mosquito bite area would turn dark and now I have dark spots all over my legs from it. I've had these spots for as long as I can remember. I hate them, because of this predicament, I don't like wearing dresses or anything that would show off my leg. Should I get a chemical peel along with laser. Or are there any creams that could help??

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Our office has many different treatments for scars depending on the depth of atrophy or hypertrophy. Scars require a combination approach using our HI DEF protocol which uses a combination of lasers, topical scar modulation, and RF treatments to pixelate scars, improve contour, reduce hyperpigmentation, and improve the visibility of the scars so that they are no longer visible in ambient light. Everyone has a unique pattern of scarring and we employ our HIDEF technique to improve texture, color, contour, and topography. We often use a combination of treatments that begin with a careful examination to examine the micro texturing of the acne scars. Atrophic scars and indented  scars can benefit from injectable fillers such as Radiesse, Sculptra, and Restylane with or without subcision to remove tethered scars and atrophic depression. Hyper-redness in scars can be improved with V beam laser, Excel V, BBL, IPL, and Venus RF to improve  the redness and reduce the visibility of deep scars. Fractional Thulium laser and clear & brilliant can also reduce the inflammation and redness of the scar when combined with topical therapy. Fractional lasers such as Fraxel, erbium, and CO2 laser can be combined with radio frequency and also fractional RF to improve textual issues and microtopography. Subcision and TCA cross are also used for deep ice pick scars and narrow valley scars in order to improve the micro texture.  Above all, our combination approach with our clinical nurses and board-certified plastic surgeons can improve the quality of your skin by using at home Melarase creams combined with PRP treatments in our office to improve your skin quality and tone. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with an experienced team of experts in order to reduce your scarring.
 
Finally, hyperpigmentation of scars can be improved with at-home Melarase AM, Melarase PM, and Melapads to help reduce active PIH and melanin deposition.

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

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

Tony Huang, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. From your history and skin type, the dark spots after mosquito bites came very likely from post inflammatory hyper pigmentation ( also called PIH). Our options are limited for people with darker skin complexions as risks of burn from IPL, Certain Laser or chemical peel are high. They may exacerbate and worsen the condition. My experience with treatment using1064nm YAG Laser such as Laser Genesis or Laser Toning may help because they are more gentle for darker skin type even 5 or 6. I would advise to see a dermatologist for a precise diagnosis, avoid sun exposure, and use daily sun screen. Good Luck!

Laura Riehm, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and posting pictures.  It looks like you have PIH:  post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.We use the PicoSure Laser with the FOCUS lens array everyday treating pigment, fine lines and wrinkles.  It is safe for all skin types.  We warn our patients that their skin may be come blotchy and pigment may appear darker for the next 3-5 days, although in rare cases it may last up to 2 weeks.  The PicoFOCUS gently delivers bursts of energy deep in the dermis without causing harm to the overlaying skin.  The pulses work to break up pigment and stimulates new collagen and elastin production.  Your body’s own healing process sweeps away older, damaged tissue and ramps up skin turnover.  Some pigment will actually travel to the surface making it initially appear darker.  We normally recommend a series of 4 treatments; 1 every 4 weeks.  Do not be concerned if your pigment goes away and then comes back within days to weeks; pigment is usually multiple layers deep and clears layer by layer. Chemical peels are usually not effective at eliminating hyperpigmentation.  We recommend finding an experienced physician in your area.  Treatment prices vary by market.

Soumo Banerji, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question and pictures.  I can see the uneven skin tone that you don't like.  Unfortunately our options are often limited for people with darker complexions as lasers and chemical peels risk causing excess pigment and/or loss of pigment.  Your best option may be a skin lightening lightening cream, with most common active ingredient being hydroxyquinone.  I recommend that you visit with a Dermatologist or Plastic Surgeon so that you can be evaluated in person, start a skin treatment therapy, and monitor your skin's response.

How do I remove dark spots on leg caused by mosquito bite? Would a Chemical Peel along with Laser help? (photo)

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