HomeAnswersDermatologydermatosis papulosa nigra (DPN)

What is the treatment to remove DPN from the face?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I am planning to remove the DPN (Dermatosis papulosa neuropathy) present on my face. What is the most effective procedure? I heard that electrocautery and carbon dioxide laser help to manage it. Which of these two procedures has the best outcome? Is there a better procedure other than these two?

Answered by Dr. Sneha Mariam Varghese

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Sneha Mariam Varghese is a Dermatologist, Cosmetologist, and Venereologist, skilled in diagnosis and management of skin, hair, and nail disorders; acne and pigmentation treatments; cosmetic dermatology procedures; and sexually transmitted infection (STI) management. She is also experienced in laser therapies, chemical peels, anti-aging treatments, hair restoration procedures, and patient counseling on skin health and preventive skincare.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

DPN (dermatosis papulosis nigra) is often removed effectively using electric cauterization as it requires less number of sittings and it is cost-effective. DPN removal using cauterization takes around two sittings as they take only one side of the face at a time or only one sitting can be preferred according to the pain tolerance. It is done under local anesthesia. On post-procedure, you will be asked to apply topical antibiotics or a short course of oral antibiotics can be taken. Laser therapy for DPN is comparable but there is a development of some side effects such as hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation, rashes, and burns and it requires more sessions.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Sneha Kannan
Published At June 27, 2020
Reviewed At February 10, 2025

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Sneha Mariam Varghese is a Dermatologist, Cosmetologist, and Venereologist, skilled in diagnosis and management of skin, hair, and nail disorders; acne and pigmentation treatments; cosmetic dermatology procedures; and sexually transmitted infection (STI) management. She is also experienced in laser therapies, chemical peels, anti-aging treatments, hair restoration procedures, and patient counseling on skin health and preventive skincare.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Education:

BDS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Sneha Kannan is a skilled Dental Surgeon with expertise in providing general dental care, including scaling, fillings, and preventive treatments. She does oral surgery procedures such as extractions and minor surgical interventions. She does procedures in restorative dentistry, including crowns, bridges, and dentures. She is an expert in doing endodontic treatments such as root canal therapy. She is well-versed in doing procedures in cosmetic dentistry, including teeth whitening and smile correction. She can provide pediatric dental care for children’s oral health and preventive treatments. She promotes oral hygiene awareness and preventive dental practices.  

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Sneha Mariam Varghese is a Dermatologist, Cosmetologist, and Venereologist, skilled in diagnosis and management of skin, hair, and nail disorders; acne and pigmentation treatments; cosmetic dermatology procedures; and sexually transmitted infection (STI) management. She is also experienced in laser therapies, chemical peels, anti-aging treatments, hair restoration procedures, and patient counseling on skin health and preventive skincare.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Listen to related tracks in our music library
Comprehensive Second Opinion

Ask your health query to a doctor online

*guaranteed answer within 4 hours

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.