Q: Last year I changed my skin care regimen to include a retinol product. This
caused some damage to my skin, leaving spots of pigmentation on my checks, as well as a brownish scar. What can I do?

A: It sounds as if this product may have caused a condition known as post inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Try a skin care regimen that includes products containing natural anti-inflammatories, such as alpha lipoic acid or pycnogenol. Further, toner pads containing the powerful anti-inflammatory DMAE should help relieve this condition. Alpha hydroxy acid creams can also help to even out skin tone.