Are these brown patches on inner thigh from derma rolling on myself? (photo)

Question

Last year in July 2017 I started to derma roll my stretch marks myself with an electric derma pen device called Dr Pen with the prepackaged needles on eBay. Since January 2018 I developed these brown patches on my inner thigh and they still haven't gone away. When I press on them they hurt. I just want to know what these terrible looking and hurtful patches could be.

Laura Riehm, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and posting a picture.  It looks and sounds like you might have Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH).  The dermarolling and dermapen results are not predictable and can make it worse.  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

Kristine Brecht, MD (license suspended) · Answer

This doesn’t sound good.Painful dark patches should be evaluated by a doctor to get a better idea of what’s going on.There could be an active infection under the skin that needs an antibiotic.Best. Dr Brecht Seattle, Wa

Are these brown patches on inner thigh from derma rolling on myself? (photo)

Answers (2)