fecal stained skin

[lookinforanswers12]

So this may be a little gross to some, but I'm concerned about pigmentation problems in my most intimate areas. Namely, the skin around my anus. I've googled the issue and it seems I'm not the only one with poop-stained skin around my anus, probably due to bad hygiene during a depression period of my life which lasted years. Anyway, hygiene has improved but my question relates to cosmetic dermatology: How can I make the skin appear more even and normal? My ideas are at-home chemical peels, some kind of cocoa butter or sugar scrub, perhaps just going to a tanning bed and focusing on this area. It's very embarassing and I would love some advice or hopefully some reassurance that the condition is more widespread and affects more people than I think... Is this normal?!
Thank you!

[Anonymous_12334]

I have some on my hands i washed with all kinds of soap and alcohol to disinfect and the stain is still on my hand it doens't smell

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
First of all nothing should be used on these delicate areas without a dermatologist’s expert opinion as it may cause irrietation of the area. Microdermabrasion can also be done, but this might require several sessions.  Skin resurfacing using lasers is also an option.  

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.

[Angebelle]

Please do not use any sort of chemical peels around the genitals, including the anus.  It could be disasterous and painful.  Light exfoliation during bathing with a wash cloth or sugar scrub, as you mentioned, could prove helpful but may take some time.  The tanning bed will not correct the skin, but will even out the skin tone.  However, this method isn't advised due to the high-level risks of skin cancer of tanning beds.  Skin lightening treatments should only be performed by dermatologists or cosmetic surgeons.  Good luck!