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Will The Persistent Redness Fade Over Time When Folliculitis Was Cleared Weeks Ago?
Hi, I had folliculitis in the mustache area about 8 weeks ago. I was prescribed Fucidin H and the infection went away within 2 weeks or so. But since then, the skin in that area has remained red, even though the infection is long gone. I do not see it fading or getting lighter and I am concerned the color will not go back to normal... I am quite pale naturally, so it is very visible and a psychological burden for me. I have had this problem once before on my chin - maybe around 6 or 7 years ago now, and even now the area feels ever so slightly discolored (bright pink), but others cannot notice it. But at the time, I had microneedling sessions on the chin which I think helped but never made it fully go away. Anyway, I am worried this will not go away on its own and leave me discolored and red like it is right now :( Many Thanks in advance for your advice!
posted on
Wed, 22 Nov 2023
Medically reviewed by
Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team
Mon, 28 Jul 2025
Answered on
Sun, 3 Aug 2025
Last reviewed on
Hello,
After folliculitis clears, post-inflammatory erythema (PIE) is very common, and it may take 3-6 months to fade away. You have to keep patience. Apply Betnovate C ointment on the area affected at night for 7-10 days. It will help to fade it. However, do not apply it in the daytime and do not apply it for a prolonged period.
Use Niacinamide 5% serum as it is very gentle and supports healing of the skin. Azelaic acid 10% helps with anti-redness and brightens pigmentation of the skin. However, creams, ointments and serums may take time. You can consult a dermatologist. A dermatologist may recommend procedures like micro-needling and low-level laser therapy, which will be effective for persistent redness.
Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Nupur K., General & Family Physician
After folliculitis clears, post-inflammatory erythema (PIE) is very common, and it may take 3-6 months to fade away. You have to keep patience. Apply Betnovate C ointment on the area affected at night for 7-10 days. It will help to fade it. However, do not apply it in the daytime and do not apply it for a prolonged period.
Use Niacinamide 5% serum as it is very gentle and supports healing of the skin. Azelaic acid 10% helps with anti-redness and brightens pigmentation of the skin. However, creams, ointments and serums may take time. You can consult a dermatologist. A dermatologist may recommend procedures like micro-needling and low-level laser therapy, which will be effective for persistent redness.
Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Nupur K., General & Family Physician
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