How to treat pigmentation around lips and acne scars for a 10-year-old with dull skin?

Question #29552

45 days ago

115

How to treat pigmentation around lips and acne scars for a 10-year-old with dull skin? - #29552

Ashitha

How to treat pigmentation around lips since childhood (10 years old)acne scars on face and dullness? What Should i Use to get clear skin?

How long have you noticed the pigmentation and acne scars?:

- Since childhood

How would you describe the severity of the pigmentation?:

- Moderate — noticeable but not severe

Has your child tried any treatments for the pigmentation or scars before?:

- No, this is the first time seeking help

Does your child have any other skin issues, like dryness or irritation?:

- No, skin is normal

How is your child's overall health and diet?:

- Very healthy — balanced diet

Has your child experienced any allergic reactions to skincare products?:

- Not sure

How often does your child spend time outdoors and in the sun?:

- Regularly — daily outdoor activities

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Dr. Arsha K Isac

I am a general dentist with 3+ years of working in real-world setups, and lemme say—every single patient teaches me something diff. It’s not just teeth honestly, it’s people… and how they feel walking into the chair. I try really hard to not make it just a “procedure thing.” I explain stuff in plain words—no confusing dental jargon, just straight talk—coz I feel like when ppl *get* what's going on, they feel safer n that makes all the difference. Worked with all ages—like, little kids who need that gentle nudge about brushing, to older folks who come in with long histories and sometimes just need someone to really sit n listen. It’s weirdly rewarding to see someone walk out lighter, not just 'coz their toothache's gone but coz they felt seen during the whole thing. A lot of ppl come in scared or just unsure, and I honestly take that seriously. I keep the vibe calm. Try to read their mood, don’t rush. I always tell myself—every smile’s got a story, even the broken ones. My thing is: comfort first, then precision. I want the outcome to last, not just look good for a week. Not tryna claim perfection or magic solutions—just consistent, clear, hands-on care where patients feel heard. I think dentistry should *fit* the person, not push them into a box. That's kinda been my philosophy from day one. And yeah, maybe sometimes I overexplain or spend a bit too long checking alignment again but hey, if it means someone eats pain-free or finally smiles wide in pics again? Worth it. Every time.

45 days ago

For a 10-year-old, pigmentation around the lips since childhood, mild acne scars, and dull skin are usually benign and manageable, and treatment should stay very gentle because children’s skin is more sensitive than teenagers’ or adults’. The aim is to protect the skin, even out tone gradually, and avoid harsh products.
Pigmentation around the lips since childhood in children is most commonly due to natural skin tone variation, mild friction (lip licking, wiping), sun exposure, or dryness. It is rarely dangerous if it has been stable for years. The most important first step is daily sun protection because sunlight can make pigmentation darker over time. Use a gentle broad-spectrum sunscreen such as La Roche-Posay Anthelios Dermo-Kids SPF 50+ or Neutrogena Pure & Free Baby Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 on the face and around the lips every morning when going outdoors.
For acne marks or scars at this age, most are actually post-inflammatory marks rather than true scars, and they fade slowly with proper skin care. A mild brightening and barrier-support product that is safe for children can help, such as a simple moisturizer containing niacinamide or ceramides. Examples often used safely in children include Cetaphil Bright Healthy Radiance Brightening Day Protection Cream or CeraVe Moisturizing Cream. These improve skin tone and reduce dullness without irritating the skin.
For dull skin, focus on routine rather than strong treatments. Wash the face twice daily with a mild cleanser, keep the skin well moisturized, ensure adequate water intake, and maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, eggs, and nuts. Avoid fairness creams, strong bleaching agents, scrubs, or products containing hydroquinone, retinoids, or high-strength acids at this age unless prescribed by a doctor.
Most children show noticeable improvement within 8–12 weeks with consistent sunscreen and gentle skincare. However, a medical check is advisable if the pigmentation is spreading quickly, becoming very dark or patchy, associated with itching or scaling, or if acne scars become deep or pitted.

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Dr. Arsha K Isac

39 days ago

Ok dear
For a 21-year-old with pigmentation around the lips, acne scars, and dull skin, these are commonly used and safe medicines/creams:
Morning:
•	Azelaic acid 10–20% gel (apply thin layer on dark areas and acne marks)
•	Sunscreen SPF 50 daily, reapply if outdoors (very important for pigmentation control)
Night:
•	Adapalene 0.1% gel (pea-sized amount to whole face, start 3 nights per week, then increase as tolerated)
•	Moisturizer after application to reduce dryness
Examples of commonly available options:
•	Azelaic acid gel or cream
•	Adapalene gel
•	A broad-spectrum sunscreen from a reputable brand (SPF 50)
Expected timeline:
•	Pigmentation and dark acne marks: improvement in about 6–12 weeks
•	Skin texture/scars: gradual improvement over 3–6 months
Important safety notes:
•	Use sunscreen daily, otherwise pigmentation will not improve.
•	Mild dryness or slight irritation in the first 2–3 weeks is common.
•	Avoid steroid creams for fairness unless prescribed.
•	Stop and seek medical advice if severe burning, redness, or peeling occurs.

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Ashitha

Client

45 days ago

Now I am 21 year old

Dr. Bharat Joshi

I’m a periodontist and academician with a strong clinical and teaching background. Over the last 4 years and 8 months, I’ve been actively involved in dental education, guiding students at multiple levels including dental hygienist, BDS, and MDS programs. Currently, I serve as a Reader at MMCDSR in Ambala, Haryana—a role that allows me to merge my academic passion with hands-on experience. Clinically, I’ve been practicing dentistry for the past 12 years. From routine procedures like scaling and root planing to more advanced cases involving grafts, biopsies, and implant surgeries. Honestly, I still find joy in doing a simple RCT when it’s needed. It’s not just about the procedure but making sure the patient feels comfortable and safe. Academically, I have 26 research publications to my credit. I’m on the editorial boards of the Archives of Dental Research and Journal of Dental Research and Oral Health, and I’ve spent a lot of time reviewing manuscripts—from case reports to meta-analyses and even book reviews. I was honored to receive the “Best Editor” award by Innovative Publications, and Athena Publications recognized me as an “excellent reviewer,” which honestly came as a bit of a surprise! In 2025, I had the opportunity to present a guest lecture in Italy on traumatic oral lesions. Sharing my work and learning from peers globally has been incredibly fulfilling. Outside academics and clinics, I’ve also worked in the pharmaceutical sector as a Drug Safety Associate for about 3 years, focusing on pharmacovigilance. That role really sharpened my attention to detail and deepened my understanding of drug interactions and adverse effects. My goal is to keep learning, and give every patient and student my absolute best.

44 days ago

Hello dear
Please do not worry and follow instructions below.
Usually the appearance ranges from red inflammatory to comedonal white heads.
These may or may not be associated with periods.
Medications:
1. Topical Treatments -Benzoyl Peroxide (2.5–5%)	twice a day  for week
Salicylic Acid, Adapalene 0.1% can also be given as additive medications.
2.Clindamycin 1%	Clindac A	,Tretinoin	( if already not taken).
3.Azelaic Acid	10 percent for two weeks.
4. Oral Medications -tablet Doxycycline 1 month twice a day  for max 5 days
or Tab Minocycline	 ( take precautions to avoid in pregnancy)
5.Oral contraceptives - Diane-35 with addition of Spironolactone	 on recommendation only by gynacologist in person only
Supportive medications
Niacinamide serum –antiinflammatory in nature twice daily for 1 week
In addition use aloevera - tulsi solution to apply topically for 1 month
In case of no improvement in 1 month, kindly consult dermatologist in person for better clarification
Regards

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Dr. Aarav Deshmukh

I am a general physician with 8 years of practice, mostly in urban clinics and semi-rural setups. I began working right after MBBS in a govt hospital in Kerala, and wow — first few months were chaotic, not gonna lie. Since then, I’ve seen 1000s of patients with all kinds of cases — fevers, uncontrolled diabetes, asthma, infections, you name it. I usually work with working-class patients, and that changed how I treat — people don’t always have time or money for fancy tests, so I focus on smart clinical diagnosis and practical treatment. Over time, I’ve developed an interest in preventive care — like helping young adults with early metabolic issues. I also counsel a lot on diet, sleep, and stress — more than half the problems start there anyway. I did a certification in evidence-based practice last year, and I keep learning stuff online. I’m not perfect (nobody is), but I care. I show up, I listen, I adjust when I’m wrong. Every patient needs something slightly different. That’s what keeps this work alive for me.

43 days ago

To address pigmentation around the lips and acne scars, along with the general dullness of the skin, especially in a 10-year-old, it’s essential to approach these skin concerns carefully and gently. For the pigmentation around the lips, the first step is to rule out any underlying health issues or irritants that might be contributing. Ensuring good sun protection by using child-safe sunscreen can help prevent further darkening caused by UV exposure. For pigmentation, gentle exfoliation once a week with a mild exfoliant can help, but this should be very gentle given the age. Acne scars can be particularly sensitive and may take time to fade. Ensuring a consistent skincare routine that includes gentle cleansing, moisturizing, and, if needed, a topical treatment recommended by a pediatric dermatologist can help facilitate skin recovery. Be cautious not to use any products that are too harsh or designed for adult skin, such as those containing strong acids or retinoids, as they might be too aggressive for young skin. It’s important to keep the skin well-hydrated, so a light, non-comedogenic moisturizer could be beneficial. As for dullness, a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and adequate hydration can support the skin’s appearance from within. Gentle skincare practices like ensuring proper cleansing without overstripping the skin’s natural oils can also assist in maintaining a fresh look. Regular use of a mild, hypoallergenic cleanser can ensure the skin remains clean and less prone to breakouts. Consistently applying a gentle moisturizer designed for sensitive skin can help improve skin tone over time. Finally, dermatological consultation could provide personalized advice and may consider minor interventions or supplements if necessary to address specific blemishes or pigment changes. Always verify these approaches align with medical guidance specifically tailored for children’s skincare needs.

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