i have in the last year grown a discoloration around ...

The first thing to do is stop everything you are doing so far. Its possible that you may have a skin condition such as eczema or a fungal infection so the treatments you have used may be inappropriate.

I'd like you to leave the skin alone for minimum of two weeks. You can use a unfragranced moisturiser to keep the area hydrated, or use Vaseline as a barrier before going outside. This will seal the skin underneath although it will feel greasy.

Once the skin has had a chance to rest we can re-examine the areas. If the skin is dry and flakey at this point then a seven day course of a 1% hydrocortisone cram may be appropriate. Alternatively if the area is red, with a clearish centre area then an antifungal cream containing miconazole is called for. Ideally I would like to see a photo, or you could see your family doctor.

We can ge this sorted but it will take time. In the meantime ensure your diet contains plenty of fresh fruit and that you drink plenty of water as this help skin condition.

Does this help at all?

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thank you for the advice, i hope this works, where might i be able to buy 1% hydrocotizone or do i need a prescription for this. sending you a picture is definitely a possibility if you can tell me where to send it. the area does not seem to be red to me, but then again i'm color blind so it may be irritated. if i need an antifungal cream with miconazole is that something i can get over the counter or will i need a prescription for that as well?

You should be able to buy both the antifungal and the hydrocortisone cream over the counter, however the hydrocortisone may not be licensed for use on the face without a doctor's prescription. Your local pharmacist can advise you if they have any products which are suitable for use on the face. If the problem is fungal using hydrocortisone will change its appearance but not clear it up.

You can upload pictures to your just answer entry by using the tree icon. If you cannot see it then go to 'tools' and adjust your setting to advanced in order to do the upload. Be aware that what you upload may be visible to other Just Answer Experts and customers. I'll check back later to see how you are doing.

Regards

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thank you so much for your help and advice. i used vaseline last night and this morning the cracking was already reduced. it was still a little dry, and although not nearly completely healed, there was a noticable difference. is there a way i can reply to you to keep you updated on my condition even after i choose to accept your replies? you've been very helpful and quick to respond to, I greatly appreciate that. please let me know if there is a way to contact you later and also to post good news about your well done job.

Thanks for your reply. I'm glad its feeling a little bit better already.

You can send me an update via the PM (personal message) icon. I try and check every day for messages but it depends if technology is working! Bit like a mini-email.

Also if you have different questions in the future, you can request individual experts by name but if I am not around at that time then someone else may help you in the meantime.

Keep me posted!

Take care

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