I am a 24-year-old working lady. Almost three years after I started my job which encompasses both field and office work, a black spot appeared on the top of my nose. I did not take it seriously but now it has spread on my nose towards my cheeks. I consulted a doctor and he told me that its pigmentation. I have been applying creams but to no avail. Doctors say it won't go away. What should I do? Nosheen
I have extremely sensitive skin that tends to tan very easily. In fact, when I go swimming, it tans so much that it starts to peel. Can you recommend a treatment for it? Sadia Suroor
Skin is divided into four basic types. Type one or the European skin burns easily but does not tan. Type four or Asian skin tans easily but does not burn. Others are in between. Tanning is due to the production of Melanin pigment in skin on exposure to sunlight. Some Asian skins may tan more than others. Clinically patchy areas of facial pigmentation are called Melasma. Causes may be pregnancy, hormonal, changes, or drugs or unknown but one thing is certain, a person having Melasma is at constant war with sunlight. Therefore the condition can be managed but not cured permanently. When swimming or at beach sun exposure is doubled. Do the following:
* Avoid excessive sun exposure as
much as possible.
* Do shopping or other outdoor activities
after sunset.
*When in sun, use all sun-shielding
means such as hats, caps, etc.
* Use a high protection sun block of SPF 60
or higher regularly.
* While swimming, use waterproof sun block
of SPF 100.
* Use any Hydroquinolone 4% cream at night
for 2-3 months.
* In case of treatment failure, consider an
indoor job.
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