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Question #17067
3 days ago
19

dark around nose - #17067

Hriday

I am really concerned about this dark around nose thing that started happening a few weeks ago. At first, I thought maybe it's just lack of sleep or something, considering I've been working long hours with barely any rest. But no matter how much I try to catch up on sleep, the dark around nose just seems to be getting worse. I looked in the mirror the other day and it really struck me how noticeable it is. I even tried some different creams, but nothing seems to work, and honestly, it’s making me feel super self-conscious. My friends have noticed too, and they keep asking if I’m okay or if I’m feeling stressed — which is kind of adding to the issue you know? Also, I did some reading online about dark around nose and there are all these reasons like pigmentation changes, allergies, or even dehydration. I’m not sure what to think! I guess I wonder if this dark around nose is a sign of something more serious or just superficial. Should I be looking into getting this checked or is it like something I can treat at home? I'm just feeling a bit overwhelmed trying to figure out what to do. Any tips on what might help or what causes this?

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Doctors’ responses

When you’re noticing a dark discoloration around your nose, it’s understandable to feel a bit overwhelmed trying to figure it out. Let’s first explore some possible causes. Hyperpigmentation, allergies, friction, and dryness could all contribute to the darkening of skin around your nose. Hyperpigmentation often results from sun exposure, hormonal changes, or inflammation. If you’ve recently increased your sun exposure or started using new skincare, that might be influencing it. Make sure to use sunscreen regularly, even on cloudy days, to prevent further darkening. Allergies or nasal congestion could also lead to skin changes from frequent nose rubbing or irritation. Using a gentle, hydrating cleanser could reduce irritation, and over-the-counter antihistamines may help if allergies are the root cause. Check if you’re drinking enough water since dehydration can make skin issues more noticeable.

Stress can also contribute to skin changes since it might alter your skin’s natural barrier or exacerbate underlying issues. Try incorporating brief moments of relaxation into your day, even just a few minutes for a deep-breathing exercise or a quick walk. Moisturizing the area regularly can improve dryness and ensure your skin’s protective barrier is intact. Consider using a fragrance-free moisturizer that doesn’t irritate sensitive areas. However, if you have tried these at-home strategies and the darkening persists, or if you notice it spreading or worsening, it’s a good idea to consult a dermatologist. They can help identify the exact cause through a detailed history taking and examination. They might propose treatments like topical creams containing ingredients like vitamin C or retinoids, which have been effective in treating hyperpigmentation in some cases. Remember, while it can be distressing, addressing lifestyle factors like hydration, skincare routines, and stress management can make a big difference. But always reach out to a healthcare professional if you’re unsure about any persistent skin changes.

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