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On top of that eczema can sometimes cause the affected areas to lighten or darken post-flare-up.
Peter Ash Lee
For many patients these pigment changes can be more frustrating than the eczema itself.
Her flare-ups have left behind patches of hyperpigmentation where her skin is noticeably darker and ashy.
Its been a long journey, she tellsAllureof navigating her discoloration challenges.
Example of hyperpigmentation on Black skin.
The way eczema presents varies depending on a persons skin tone.
More severe, chronic cases can be challenging to treat and can make the skin feel exceptionally itchy.
Example of hyperpigmentation on Black skin.
Its also wise toavoid usingactive ingredients (like retinoid and vitamin C) simultaneously.
This can be particularly irritating to eczema-prone skin.
When selecting skin-care products, the National Eczema Associations Seal of Acceptance is a good place to start.
The products that feature the seal are fragrance-free and have been vetted as suitable for eczema-prone skin.
Here are a few worth asking your dermatologist about.
This lightening agent is only available by prescription.
Dermatologists may also suggest formulations that combinehydroquinonewith other depigmenting agents to boost its effectiveness.
It helps lighten dark areas by inhibiting melanin production in the skin.
Studies show that kojic acid is safe and effective at a 1% concentration.
(Although some emergingresearchsuggests that up to 2% may be tolerable.)
The ingredient is available in various over-the-counter products likeSkinCeuticals Discoloration Defense.
This is another topical option that brightens skin and fades dark spots by inhibiting melanin production.
Dr. Spearman notes that as an antioxidant, vitamin C helps protect against UV damage.
It also has anti-inflammatory properties.
Its best to ask your dermatologist which concentration will work best for you.
Topical retinoids like tretinoin (often sold under brand names like Retin-A) are also a treatment option.
Retinoid products are available in various prescription and over-the-counter forms, such as creams, lotions, and gels.
They work by increasing skin-cell turnover, which Dr. Spearman says helps fade dark spots.
But theres a bit of a catch: This cellular process can irritate eczema-prone skin.
This so-called sandwich method can help prevent unintended results.
If the irritation from the retinoid is significant, it can actually cause post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, warns Dr. Spearman.
In other words it could cause the skin to darken further.
Sunscreen use is also highly encouraged, as retinoids increase sensitivity to UV rays.
Sometimes [patients of color] dont regularly use sunscreen because they dont feel like they need one.
This is not true, says Dr. Spearman.
Particularly when using a retinoid, daily sun protection is essential.
Its another gentle chemical exfoliant that works to brighten the complexion.
That will help keep skin irritation at bay, she says.
SkinCeuticals
SkinCeuticals Discoloration Defense.
These in-office procedures can resurface areas that may be hyperpigmented or scarred from years of flare-ups and scratching.
However, they emphasize that in many cases, pigment returns naturally over time.
If you dont want to wait, there are a few possible treatments the dermatologists suggest.
Participants saw noticeable improvements in their skin tone, particularly during the first two weeks of treatment.
While these medications might help stimulate repigmentation for some patients, Dr. Spearman notes that the results can vary.
Ask your doctor if this treatment may be worth trying.
Non-ablative laser treatments are used to fade conditions like dark spots and minor scars without damaging the skins surface.
We also use this machine for patients with vitiligo to help stimulate pigment production, Dr. Weinstein Velez says.
However, she stresses that treating skin of color and eczema-prone skin requires specialized knowledge.
Experts in the field should be the ones using lasers, she notes.
In other words, do not try this at home, folks!
Perhaps more important, though, is doing your best to prevent those flares in the first place.
In terms of her own health, she also experiments in other ways.
There is a big gap in serving this population.
