Brown Spot on the Cheek

I have a big brown freckle on my cheek. I tried epi???? but it did not work. What can I do next?

I’m going to assume that you’ve had your doctor look at this to make sure it isn’t a skin cancer!  Did your doctor try freezing it very lightly (1-2 seconds) with liquid nitrogen? Sometimes if your doctor can get it to peel a bit then the Epiquinmicro or other prescription hydroquinone 4% cream will penetrate a bit better.  I’m also assuming you are sunscreening your face every morning with a sunscreen with zinc 5-10% or mexoryl 3% to block UVA as well as UVB.

 If the above isn’t effective, you’ll need a laser.  I would recommend an IPL device or a Q-switched YAG done through a dermatologist’s office so it will be powerful enough. Most of the salon IPL’s are underpowered.  Don’t waste your money!

Dr. Brandith Irwin, MD

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Hi, I’m Dr. Irwin. I believe that consumers deserve a medically trained and unbiased skin care advocate.

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