Why does my face look bad when I walk into direct sunlight?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have had mild acne for years and it seems to be under control now with an occasional break out here and there, mainly just trying to fix scarring. I am a 26-year-old male. Currently, I am using the Menscience brand facial wash, mirco scrub, and rosewater toner. I lie to keep things simple. I just started the facial wash and scrub about a couple of weeks ago, alternating between the two so that I do not over-exfoliate, and it has been good to me. No breakouts or irritation and I can tell slightly that my complexion is better.

Now for the big issue, my face looks pretty decent in natural lighting or inside the house but as soon as I step into direct sunlight, I look horrible. It is a complete change from what I see in my mirror at home, and I am wondering if I need to add more glycolic products to my regime or what. I see other's faces and direct sunlight does not show imperfections like it does mine. It makes my face look 10 times worse and I do not know what to do. I do not want to just avoid sunlight to fix my paranoia, I want to fix the problem for good. Do I just need to give these new washes more time to slough away the scars and smooth them out or should I incorporate a glycolic pad to speed up the process?

Please help.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I am glad you chose icliniq for your medical-related queries.

I understand your concern and will try to help you with it.

I am glad you asked this. Could you also upload a photo of your face both indoors as well as in natural daylight? I need to have a close-up view to pinpoint the diagnosis and suggest a remedy. I appreciate your concern.

I appreciate your trust in icliniq.com and for giving me a chance to serve you.

Our goal is to prioritize your health and help you according to your preferences and needs.

Thank you.

Answer 2

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I read and understand your concern.

It is very evident to me that this is nothing but chronic acne scarring with post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. It can be very disgusting at times. Treatment includes:

Tri-Luma cream (Hydroquinone 4 %) only over the spots at night. Only up to two weeks maximum. Then follow-up back with the picture in shade and sun and I will change the cream. Using it for more than the desired time period can cause side effects.
Neotone radiance SPF 50+ 20 minutes before going outdoors. Reapply after 2 to 3 hours.

This should be enough. Stop all self-medication and any home remedies you might be thinking to consider. It will take some time but eventually, it will lighten out. Be patient and be regular with follow-ups after two weeks.

Looking forward to your response in order to help you.

Thank you.

Why does my face look bad when I walk into direct sunlight?

Acne Scarring and Hyperpigmentation Companion