My belly button turned dark after a mild infection. Will it come back to its normal color?
Patient's Query
Hi doctor,
I have a fair skin tone. However, my belly button's color turned into dark brown ever since I started touching it (because of mannerism). I stopped touching it recently because I had a belly button discharge with a mild infection. Now, I wonder if it can still go back to the way it used to be before?
Hi,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
According to your history, you had a mild infection along with discharge from your belly button. When infections like that heal, they leave behind dark spots. This condition is called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. The treatment should be started as early as possible. If you still have discharge, apply an antibiotic ointment like Mupirocin 2% twice daily for five days. This is the best prescription for hyperpigmentation. After healing of infection, you can use topical depigmenting agents containing Kojic acid or Azelaic acid 15%, or certain licorice extracts that can effectively lighten the areas. You can send a picture of the affected areas and follow up after five days.
Patient's Query
Thank you doctor,
I am using a soap containing Kojic acid to take a bath. After taking a bath, I am also using the ordinary Azelaic suspension 10% cream, but I see no improvement.
Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!
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