Should I Be Concerned About This?
At 16 years old and assigned female at birth, I have no background of using drugs, consuming alcohol, or smoking, although I am often around secondhand smoke. For a while now, I've had a minor scab in a certain area that I've been guilty of picking at when it reappears (I realize that's not advisable). Recently, I've noticed a mark that resembles a scab, but it appears to be beneath the skin, manifesting as a dark, hole-like spot with scarred skin covering it. Additionally, the skin surrounding this area seems a bit flaky. Could this simply be an unusual scar, or is it something that deserves concern? I apologize if this comes off as overly anxious.
Answers (1)
6/28/2025, 1:20:34 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel concerned about changes in your skin, especially if you're noticing something new or unusual. The mark you described — a dark, hole-like spot beneath the skin with flaky surrounding skin — could be due to various reasons, such as a scar, a cyst, or another skin condition. Since you have a history of picking at scabs, it's possible that this contributed to the appearance or texture of the area.
Explanation
Skin can often change in response to trauma, such as picking, leading to skin conditions like scars or other localized reactions. Sometimes, these can appear as dark spots or holes if the skin's underlying structure is disturbed. However, it’s essential to monitor any changes, especially if it's new, changing, or accompanied by other symptoms like itching or pain.
Next Steps
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Avoid Picking: As you've acknowledged, try to avoid picking at the area, as this can worsen irritation or lead to infection. Keeping your hands away will give it a better chance to heal.
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Clean and Moisturize: Gently cleanse the area with mild soap and water. Use a non-comedogenic moisturizer to keep the surrounding skin hydrated, which can help with any flakiness.
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Monitor for Change: Keep an eye on the mark over the next few weeks. Look for signs of change, including increased redness, swelling, pain, or any pus.
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Document Symptoms: Take pictures of the area regularly. This can help you track any changes over time and will be helpful if you need to consult a healthcare professional in the future.
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Seek Advice if Needed: If the mark does not improve in a few weeks, changes, or starts to cause discomfort, consider seeking advice from a healthcare professional for an evaluation.
It's completely valid to feel anxious about new skin changes, and taking these steps can help you feel more in control of the situation. Remember, it's better to be cautious when it comes to your health.
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