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Child Was Burned By Hot Iron On Calf. Healed But Have Small Patches Of Hypopigmented Skin. Treatment?

Posted on Fri, 4 Oct 2013

Question: My 10yr old daughter was accidentally burned by a hot iron on the middle part of her calf on the left leg. It healed within 3 weeks but they are small patches of hypopigmented skin that looks ugly. Is there any treatment for this pls. Pls I need your advice on this quickly.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Prasad J (9 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
1% hydrocortisone cream...

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

It seems she has developed burn related post inflammation hypopigmentation. 1% hydrocortisone cream can be used on such spots.

However if I were to be her treating doctor, I would recommend to wait for couple of weeks more before you try this steroid cream. I have seen many patients with similar spots getting back to normal skin colour and tone in 4-6 weeks after injury. Therefore wait for couple of weeks more. You can use the hydrocortisone cream if you don't see changes in the next 2 weeks.

Hope this helps. Write back for clarifications.

Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Prasad J (15 minutes later)

How often and for how long do I use the cream. The wound is about a month old now. Thanks

Answered by Dr. Dr. Prasad J (5 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Twice a day for 2 weeks...

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

Twice a day for 2 weeks application of steroid cream would be sufficient. If you do not see signs of improvement in 2 weeks time, you can visit a dermatologist who can prescribe stronger and more potent steroid preparation.

Hope this helps. Write back for clarifications.
Please close this discussion if your concerns are addressed.

Regards

Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar