Dr Sachin Dhawan, a renowned skin specialist, discusses treatment for skin scars due to pigmentation and allergic dermatitis—the latest in the line of treatment.
International Pigmentation Day: 25th May
In a world obsessed with flawless beauty, clear skin often becomes more than a cosmetic preference—it can shape self-worth, confidence, and social behaviour.
For many women, pigmentation, particularly that brought on by dermatitis, subtly creates a psychological burden, leading to self-consciousness and emotional distress. What may appear to be a minor dermatological issue sometimes impacts self-esteem.
The Emotional Weight of a Skin Imperfection
Pigmentation is more than just a patch on the skin—it’s a persistent reminder for many women about visible scars on their bodies. In India, while hyperpigmentation from sun damage or hormonal shifts is widely recognised, pigmentation resulting from dermatitis remains lesser-known.
“I avoided mirrors for months,” shares 34-year-old Shruti Sharma, a marketing executive who developed dermatitis-induced pigmentation after a bout of allergic eczema. “It wasn’t just about looking different—it was about feeling judged, as if people were noticing my skin before anything else about me.” Shruti was asked uncomfortable questions that affected her psychology immensely, affecting her work performance.
Another case involved the scars left by severe allergic dermatitis on Lakshmi Venkat’s hands and legs. After more than two years, she still hesitates to wear sleeveless tops and short dresses. Unfortunately, sometimes the cause of allergic dermatitis cannot be pinpointed, dermatologists say.
Understanding Dermatitis Pigmentation
Dermatitis pigmentation typically follows an inflammatory skin condition like eczema, allergic reactions, or contact dermatitis. Once the inflammation subsides, it leaves dark patches, especially in melanin-rich skin types. Unlike common tanning or post-acne marks, this pigmentation is stubborn, can deepen over time, and is more prone to recurrence.
“Women, especially in their 30s and 40s, are coming in increasingly with pigmentation caused by dermatitis,” says Dr. Sachin Dhawan, renowned dermatologist and skin specialist. “It affects not just their appearance, but also their emotional well-being. Fortunately, this condition is very much treatable with the right approach.”
Treatments That Work—And Those That Don’t
The silver lining? Advances in dermatology have made it possible to manage and significantly reduce pigmentation caused by dermatitis.
According to a renowned dermatologist and consultant at Fortis Memorial Research Institute and founder of Skinnsmiles Clinics, Dr Sachin Dhawan, “Mesotherapy, Q-switch, and YAG laser work fine to reduce pigmentation in dermatitis. Chemical peels are generally not preferred, as there is a chance of recurrence.”
Korean fads!
While cosmetic fads often promise miraculous transformations, not all trending treatments are backed by science. Korean facials, for instance, have gained immense popularity due to their claims of skin rejuvenation. But are they effective for this specific concern?
“The benefits of Korean facials for dermatitis-induced pigmentation have not been clinically established,” clarifies Dr. Dhawan. “There haven’t been many scientific studies conducted on the subject. However, some individual treatments do provide benefits for certain individuals.”
He recommends combining oral and injectable treatments for those looking for results with medical backing: “Oral tranexamic acid tablets and oral glutathione supplements are beneficial, alongside tranexamic acid injections, PRP therapy, and NCTF 135A treatment.”
Contrary to the belief, not all lasers offer equal benefits across all types of pigmentation: “Lasers are not very beneficial for age-related pigmentation. He adds that they’re only helpful for overall skin toning and do not have much of a role for melasma and related pigmentation.
Breaking the Complex
Awareness and timely treatment are the keys to breaking free from the pigmentation complex. Women must understand that they are not alone and that pigmentation, though visually distressing, is medically manageable. Most importantly, separating one’s self-worth from a skin condition is essential. Skin can be healed; when nurtured from within, confidence need not depend on it.
For those silently battling the mirror every morning, know this: clear skin is achievable, and a patch never defines your beauty.
