OpenHealth Q&A

Struggles with Darkened Facial Skin, Blemishes, and Hair Growth

At 25 years old, I’ve experienced significant changes in the condition of my skin, which now leans towards being oily. In the past, I enjoyed relatively clear skin for about 2 to 2.5 years, with my only daily skincare step being a simple men’s facial cleanser. However, I was always bothered by the hair growth above my beard line, leading me to frequently rely on my barber for threading or waxing. At home, I would resort to using tweezers, but this ordeal was often excruciating. Despite my attempts to endure the pain, it would usually leave me teary-eyed, with a runny nose. Eventually, I sought a more permanent solution, eager to end the discomfort altogether. After conducting some research, I initially considered laser treatment, but the potential side effects like skin pigmentation and the lengthy nature of the treatment dissuaded me. Instead, I chose electrolysis. Living in Istanbul, I quickly located a beauty center nearby and scheduled my first session. Though the pain was intense, I hoped it would spare me from years of discomfort. (For context, I had oily skin but had never dealt with acne prior to this.) In October, I attended my first electrolysis appointment. Post-treatment, I was instructed to apply a blend of two creams and an antibacterial talcum powder while avoiding water or washing my face for 48 hours. I complied fully. Nevertheless, my skin remained red and swollen for about three days, and unsightly bumps lingered for 14 to 20 days. When I inquired with the staff, they reassured me such reactions were normal and would improve over time. During this period, I also underwent around three to five sessions of Glutathione IV (Tad 600) in hopes of enhancing my skin appearance and mitigating the visible pigmentation. However, I began to notice some acne emerging, which I dismissed as a temporary side effect. Ultimately, I underwent about 5 to 6 sessions of electrolysis, but I reached a breaking point due to the damage inflicted on my skin, which I believed far outweighed the minor hair concern. This is how my facial skin appears now—though many advised that it would heal in time, my experience with various serums, cleansers, and routines yielded no improvements. Last summer, I suffered a serious breakout of acne on my forehead, manageable with a cream prescribed by a pharmacist. I feel compelled to outline my journey because I am unsure where everything went astray. I attempted to give my skin space to recover naturally, but saw no benefits. I even stopped using all products and refrained from tweezing the hair above my moustache for a time. Surprisingly, not only did I develop new hair growth in that area—previously hair-free—but I now have dark patches extending 2-3cm long. Currently, I’m left with patches on my face that I suspect might be related to ingrown hairs or other issues. Overall, the quality of my skin has remarkably declined, appearing far darker than it did two to three years ago, almost as if my appearance has entirely changed. I now deal with numerous dark spots, including areas between my eyes, alongside rapid hair growth and an increase in ingrown hairs. Finding trustworthy dermatologists in Istanbul is a challenge; many professionals seem uninterested in listening to patients and often provide the same treatment regardless of the individual issue, making it evident that some practices are merely scams. With so many options, it can be confusing to determine whom to trust. I would greatly appreciate any guidance or recommendations that could simplify my situation. Currently, I rely on foundation and face powder to mask my skin issues, which has compounded my struggles and eroded my self-confidence. Your support and insights would mean the world to me. Thank you for taking the time to read my experience! 🫶🏻

Answers (1)

7/19/2025, 4:10:45 PM

OpenHealth AI

Thank you for sharing your detailed experience. It sounds like you’ve faced a lot of challenges regarding your skin and hair growth, and it’s understandable that you feel frustrated and concerned about the changes. Based on what you've described, it's important to address both the skin issues and the hair growth in a way that is gentle and effective.

Main Points:

1. You have experienced significant changes in skin condition, leading to dark patches and acne.
2. Electrolysis and treatments like glutathione IV haven't yielded the desired results.
3. You are seeking guidance on how to improve your skin condition and manage hair growth effectively.

Explanation:

Your skin’s reaction to electrolysis and other treatments can include inflammation, which may lead to temporary darkening, especially if there’s been trauma from hair removal. The dark patches you’re experiencing may be post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, which is common after skin irritation or acne. Moreover, hormonal factors could also play a role in your oily skin and hair growth.

Actionable Guidance:

1. Gentle Skincare Routine:

   • Simplify your skincare. Use a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser in the morning and evening. Avoid harsh scrubs or exfoliants, which can irritate your skin.
   • Consider a moisturizer that contains ingredients like niacinamide or hyaluronic acid, which can help with oil control and improve skin texture.

2. Treating Dark Patches:

   • Look for topical treatments that contain ingredients such as vitamin C, licorice extract, or hydroquinone for hyperpigmentation (if you opt for hydroquinone, it’s usually best to use under the guidance of a professional). Make sure to apply sunscreen daily, as this will prevent dark spots from worsening.

3. Manage Hair Growth:

   • If electrolysis was too harsh, consider alternatives such as laser hair removal, which some individuals find gentler on the skin. Make sure to consult with a qualified professional who understands your skin type.
   • In the meantime, if you need hair management, gentle hair removal methods or trimming may be less irritating while you explore other options.

4. Monitor Acne:

   • Since you’ve experienced breakouts, you might benefit from over-the-counter products containing salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide. Using these can help keep pores clear without irritation.
   • Maintain consistency with the products, giving them a few weeks to show results before switching.

5. Consider Professional Help:

   • Finding the right dermatologist can be challenging. Look for professionals who specialize in cosmetic dermatology or skin conditions and check for reviews or recommendations from trusted sources or community forums.
   • Ask if they focus on personalized care and are willing to listen to your concerns, as this can greatly improve your experience.

Reassure Yourself:

Remember, skin changes can be distressing, but many people go through similar journeys. With time, the right products, and professional guidance, you can find a solution that works best for your skin. Take each step at your own pace, and don't hesitate to reach out for support when needed. You've done a lot of research and have taken proactive steps already, which is commendable!