Melasma on back

by scarlett
(florida)

Hi Miss, i came across your site while searching for skin whitening creams for melasma that i have on some parts of my back. The weird thing is, i hate the sun (i live in Florida) so ive never exposed my back. My arms, near my elbows have become a little darker im sure from the sun while im driving and the windows are open. I religiously use sunscreen on my face and neck because i fear the pigment coming to my face.

Can you please recommend something for those areas. I also have a few patches on the shins of my legs i'd like to treat. I have very sensitive skin and i noticed you are recommending the skin lightening soap, should i just use the soap in the specific areas? The rest of my skin is perfect,(tan to brown) so i just want to make sure.

Sadly, i use 2% hydroquinone right now for on the spot acne marks but i feel it isn't working well anymore. For future acne scars do i wash my whole face with the soap, i do have a little pigment under my lower lip.

I hope you can help me, i dont want to use hydroquinone anymore even though i use it about once a week.

Thank You for your time

Answer:

Hi Scarlett, I'm not a fan of hydroquinone-based skin whitening creams because it is much criticized as a carcinogenic ingredient.

Since you said you have sensitive skin, a mild skin lightening soap is suggested -

Diana Stalder DS or Dermaline DE Black SOap

It can be a slower process but be patient and consistent, use once a day, and wear sunscreen on all sun exposed areas of skin.

If you feel your skin type can safely handle the soap's effects, you can add a body whitening lotion later. :)

Maria