Skinrepublic

Dear Dr. Jen,

   I have brown skin. I have a lot of bug bites on my leg that are now very dark. Is there a laser that can zap it away? And if there is, what is the name of these lasers?

   Susan

   Dear Susan,

   Brown skin can cause pigmentation problems as they scar. Laser can be tricky when using it on brown skin. You must work patiently with your PDS dermatologist since there is no single setting on the machine that will work for everyone. A test spot is usually used first with the lowest settings. Your dermatologist can check it again after a few weeks to see how you responded. Two things can go wrong with laser for dark scars: it can either become too white or too dark. 

   However, your dermatologist may have some mixed whitening agents that are stronger than the ones found over the counter. It is worth it to give these a try before venturing into laser. After all, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation caused by insect bites are usually superficially and will respond to hydroquinone, vitamin C, kojic acid, or licorice.

   The Q switched Nd:yag has wonderful results with taking care of dark pigment on the skin. This is different from IPL which isn't really a laser. The only brand of Nd:yagI am familiar with is the one we use, the Medlite. However, I am sure there are other brands out there that will also work. Just make sure to ask first and do research before allowing the doctor to use the laser on you.

   Dear Dr. Jen,

   I have skin-colored bumps around my eyes. My doctor said I might have syringoma tumors. How do I get rid of them?

   Kay

   Dear Kay,

   Syringoma are harmless sweat gland tumors. Unfortunately, being sweat glands they are found in the dermis, which is the deep part of the skin. Removing them with electrocautery or ablative laser or deep peels will risk scarring. Excision will get rid of it more completely. Again, there is also the risk of developing multiple deep or dark scars.

   Most people are contented with cauterizing or lasering off the superficial part. This ensures there is no scarring. The downside is that it will eventually grow back after a couple of months or years.

   No matter which method you choose, you can always try it on 2-3 spots first and see how you heal. If you are satisfied, then you can continue with doing all of the syringomas.

   If you have any questions or concerns please text 0922 845 5556or call (032) 232 5929 or email [email protected].

Dr Tan is a diplomate of Philippine Dermatological Society (PDS). She is affiliated with Perpetual Succour Hospital. For other information on PDS, check http://www.pds.org.ph/.