HOMOEOPATHIC MANAGEMENT OF FACIAL HYPERPIGMENTATION ASSOCIATED WITH ACNE: A CASE REPORT AT DR BATRA'S

Abstract

Facial hyperpigmentation associated with acne is a common dermatological concern that can have a significant psychosocial impact, particularly in individuals who are highly conscious of their appearance. Conventional management may require prolonged treatment and often involves addressing both active acne and residual pigmentation. This case report describes a patient presenting with long-standing facial hyperpigmentation associated with acne, which had reportedly developed after relocation to Delhi and persisted despite multiple previous skin treatments.

The patient was a working woman employed in sales in a private firm, with associated occupational stress, disturbed sleep, dry skin and concerns regarding skin appearance. The case-taking revealed prominent emotional characteristics, including a history of love disappointment, silent grief, emotional sensitivity, family-related stress, discord in the marital relationship and anxiety regarding her own health. The patient also reported a strong desire for spicy food.

A detailed individualised case assessment and repertorisation were undertaken. Ignatia was selected as the constitutional prescription based on the prominent emotional picture, particularly silent grief and ailments following love disappointment. Thuja was considered as an intercurrent prescription, while Berberis aquifolium was used as an acute/specific prescription for the facial skin presentation.

The case demonstrates the importance of comprehensive individualisation in patients presenting with chronic skin complaints, where the presenting dermatological symptoms are considered alongside physical generals, mental-emotional characteristics, lifestyle and contextual factors. Objective dermatological assessment and longitudinal photographic documentation are important for evaluating treatment response in such cases.