HomeAnswersDermatologyhyperpigmentationI have dark circles and hyperpigmentation. Please help.

What should I do to reduce the hyperpigmentation and dark circles under my eyes?

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

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Published At December 30, 2016
Reviewed AtFebruary 11, 2024

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I had undergone a Co2 laser treatment around my eyes about three and half years ago. Now, I am left with dark circles under the eyes along with hyperpigmentation and redness. About one and half weeks back, the doctor prescribed me a cream that has Kojic acid 1%, Glycolic acid 5%, Betamethasone dipropionate 0.1% and Chamomile extract 5%. The doctor asked me to put this cream at night with no lights. However, I do not see any improvement. I think it looks bad. What can I do now? I am uploading my pictures. I am using Bepanthen and sunscreen. Currently, I am taking Synthyroid, Cytomel and Progesterone.

Answered by Dr. Sushil Kakkar

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have gone through your query and reviewed the pictures (attachment removed to protect patient identity). I suggest you a moderately potent topical steroid like Fluticasone propionate 0.05 % cream, twice daily for a few days. Prescription hyperpigmentation treatment can be received from a online telemedicine portal or direct consultation. Consult your specialist doctor, discuss with him or her and take the medicine with consent. Protect yourself from the sun. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen throughout the day.

Patient's Query

Thank you doctor,

I do not want to take corticosteroids because it gives me insomnia and also causes thinning of my skin after using it for just three days. Can you suggest something else?

Answered by Dr. Sushil Kakkar

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Using a moderately potent topical steroid for two weeks. It would not cause skin thinning as systemic side effects. Anyways, an alternative is to use the mildest over-the-counter topical steroid like Cortisone (1% Hydrocortisone), which is absolutely safe. It would not cause thinning or any systemic side effects. If you do not want to use steroid creams, then you may use just a simple moisturizer twice or thrice daily and also use a Kojic acid 2% cream, twice daily. Protect yourself from the sun. Consult your specialist doctor, discuss with him or her, and take the treatment with consent.

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

    Dr. Sushil Kakkar
    Dr. Sushil Kakkar

    Dermatology

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