Has anyone had similar on their face. Is it skin cancer?

[Caterpillar41]

I had a little patch of pigmentation on my face for years ( I’m 46) and in the last 4 weeks it’s got redder and itchy and raised. I went to the docs last week and she said it didn’t give her any cause for concern but that she would review it in three weeks. She told me to use an oil based moisturiser and prescribed steroid cream - I’m not going to use it as both my husband and friend have had awful steroid withdrawal effects.

I suppose my main worry is that it could be cancerous. The pics make it look more like a spot but it definitely isn’t. I’ve cut back all my skin care ( vit c, retinol etc).

obviously I’ll be mentioning all this to my doc in a few weeks but just wondered if anyone had any thoughts? I’m feeling quite anxious!

Thank you!

withdrawal problem from using a topical cream?

What withdrawal effects did they have from a steroid cream out of interest? I use one from time to time and have never had problems not using it. I have fair skin a bit like yours and have occasionally had odd things happen to my skin like this. I have an annual skin check with a private GP which you could consider for a second opinion.

I’d defo try the steroid cream for a week or so before going back to the GP, but only a very small amount. I’d also recommend La Roche Posay cicaplast baum which is brilliant for calming weird skin conditions.

Also what do you use on your face as skincare? Could it be a reaction to anything you use?

Sorry just reread and you’ve said you have cut back on retinol etc.

Try the cream that's been prescribed or go back to doctor and tell her why you don't want to use it and could she prescribe an alternative.

I've had a few basal cell carcinoma removed over time. They are very common and relatively easy to remove. (More problematic if on or near nose or eyes). I've also used the cream - it got rid of the bcc without having to have an operation.

I grew up in a hot country, I have aktinic keratoses (sp) which shows as dry flaky, sometimes red, patches of skin. It can lead to skin cancer and needs to be treated. I would ask for a referral OR go private - which is what I did when the GP referred specialist said my Basel cell carcinoma was a wart… which is a separate issue.

In saying that, it could be any number of other issues - but only a dermatologist can advise you. Not your GP.

They both used it for too long and it caused dermatitis. I was tempted to order Cicaplast as I’ve used it in the past and it’s been great. I’ve got some Fucidin cream I wonder if that would work? I never collected my hydrocortisone prescription. Thanks for you reply! X

By cream do you mean steroid cream? X

I have the exact same thing in almost the exact same place.
It's been there at least all.of 2025, but is getting more sore and more itchy.
I don't use any skincare except a basic moisturiser so it's not that.
I have also previously had 3 basal cell carcinoma removed so am thinking I should definitely get this checked out now.

I don't understand why you won't try the hydrocortisone cream. You say your husband and friend used it for too long. If you follow your doctor's instructions and don't do what they did, then you will most likely be absolutely fine,

Use the steroid cream! If you won't cooperative with your treatment I'm not sure you can expect further help from the doctor.

Hydrocortisone is very mild you should be fine with it

Fucidin is different, it's an antibiotic cream basically.

I've used hydrocortisone on and off for years with no ill effects, it would be my first port of call.

Fucidin H has a steroid also. It is wonderful stuff

Yes mine is getting itchier too! It’s driving me mad! X

I guess I’ve just been scared by the ill effects it’s had on others close to me. I am tempted to give it a go though.

Seborrhic keratosis? I had one and the gp froze it off. It’s gone now although skin is still a bit red from the freezing

It’s true you shouldn’t use steroid cream long-term but trying a low dose one until your next GP appointment won’t hurt.

You could also try The Cornish Seaweed company, they have a seaweed balm that has great reviews. Napiers also have good herbal skin creams for various conditions.