Dark Line Around Waist (Skin)

[S7]

I have a dark line around my waist that almost looks like a tan even though my waist is never exposed to sun. It’s where the waistband goes around my waist so I guess it’s the result of having been overweight and the tightness around my waist. I’ve had it for as long as I can remember. Is there anything I can do to get rid of this?

[POWERJIM]

Alot of Metro guys use Solariums to get rid of inperfections like that.

[CookieMonster]

Originally Posted by S7

I have a dark line around my waist that almost looks like a tan even though my waist is never exposed to sun. It’s where the waistband goes around my waist so I guess it’s the result of having been overweight and the tightness around my waist. I’ve had it for as long as I can remember. Is there anything I can do to get rid of this?

did your belly use to sag? if so thats probably why. constant lack of air ventiltion and moisture and skin rubbing.

thats my guess.

[S7]

Thanks for all the feedback on this. I used to be overweight but never obese. I had a fat stomach but it never really sagged over much. I've had that dark line for many years but I never really concerned myself with until recently when I lost alot of weight.

I just read an article about how elastic could cause contact dermatitis. This doesn't really appear to be that but I have always worn boxer shorts so I guess the elastic could be causing the problem in some way.

I was thinking about trying some fade cream/skin lightener to see if that might help. I guess I could always try tanning as well and make it less noticeable.

[S7]

Originally Posted by POWERJIM

Alot of Metro guys use Solariums to get rid of inperfections like that.

Thanks PowerJim, LOL, I just discovered that a solarium is actually a tanning bed in the UK. I guess I might give that a try and see how it works out. That line actually looks almost like my waist got tanned.

[Taekwondo Guy]

have you tried washing?

looks like a tan line to me

[narcsarge]

Originally Posted by Taekwondo Guy

have you tried washing?

looks like a tan line to me

Or, you had your belt tighter then you needed to. Ask a dermatologist for some advice.

[POWERJIM]

Check this out...........

darkened skin around waist

Forum: The Dermatology Forum
Topic: Pigmentation Problems
Subject: darkened skin around waist

From To Post
gemini74
05/14/2006

For years I have had a discoloration of skin around my waist. I am lean and of Hispanic descent if that helps any. I have always worn 100% cotton briefs or boxer briefs (and yes, I change my underwear daily and always put on a fresh pair). I don't think that they fit me tight, so I'm not sure if it's chafing or something else that's causing the discoloration. Also, the pants I wear (mostly denim) are not tight fitting at all. And the area is never exposed to sun, as I have not been out in the sun regularly for some years. Could it be that my skin is just sensitive in that area, as it does not occur anywhere else on my body? The discoloration is slightly more dark on the sides of my waist than on the ab region or on my lower back. I regulary apply cream (moisterizing, butter cocoa, and Eurcerin...different ones over the years) when I get out of the shower to my body to see if that helps. I've even gone a period of time without using cream and no change in the discoloration. I've even tried babypowder to see if that would help. I didn't really notice a change. It's strictly a cosmetic thing I suppose, but I am conscious of it and was wondering if anyone had any suggestions. Thanks.

Derm-M.D.-ASR
05/16/2006

gemini74 It's possible that even if you don;t have irritation now, you may have had some in the past. Irritation can cause extra pigmentation, especially in people whose skin tone is dark to begin with. In such cases the pigment is sometimes long-lasting or permanent. Bleaching creams and other therapies don't really help much.

To get a solid diagnosis, you'll need to see a doctor in person. I doubt you'll find out anything unpleasant, but at the same time I'm afraid you also aren't likely to learn of an effective therapy.

Best.

Dr. Rockoff

http://www.medhelp.org/forums/dermat...ges/34428.html

[narcsarge]

Wow! I was on the right track! hmmm who knew?