What could be the reason behind darkening of skin bumps?

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have examined the pictures (attachments removed to protect patient identity) and noted your details. The description matches closely that of superficial folliculitis which is a low grade bacterial infectionof the hair follicles and is recurrent in nature. For someone attending with me in my clinic and having a similar profile, I would have taken full history and conducted local and general physical examination, and would have suggested the following measures:

1. Maintenance of good hygiene by washing or sponging the area frequently with plain water.
2. Mupirocin cream is to be applied locally twice daily because of its superior antibiotic action.
3. Tablet Levocetirizine 5 mg a day to relieve itching.
4. I assume that you are not a diabetic nor have you performed any hair removal procedure. I would request you to apprise me on these two points in your follow up mail.
5. Using antioxidants in a diet such as fresh fruits and vegetables will help relieve pigmentation in most cases.

It is expected that with above measures, there should be improvement within a week or so. It would be good to keep me updated, so that I can guide you through the recovery process.

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I understand your concerns.

In most instances, it is best to not let the infection develop as that is the best strategy to deal with after effects of disease manifestation. However, in most cases like yours, the pigmentation is likely to subside with time. Here under, are listed some measures that will help in faster clearance in most cases, as this is my observation on patients in my practice:

1. Avoid friction.
2. Wash or sponge frequently.
3. Avoid chemicals and perfumes like deodorants on this area.
4. Use antioxidants, referred to in the previous post.
5. Avoid sun exposure.

If possible, get culture sensitivity of pus from lesions done as antibiotics might be needed in persistent cases. My best wishes and take good care of yourself.