Ayesha Atique, L.Ac., Ltd.

03/06/2026

02/26/2026

2026 Goal: Let it all go!
Courtesy of .school.of.minimalism

02/24/2026

🌿 Things I learned the hard way: Doxycycline & Skin Pigmentation 🧴

Here’s something not many people talk about —
If you have a deeper skin tone, certain medications like doxycycline (often prescribed for acne or infections) can sometimes lead to unexpected skin pigmentation changes.

✳️ The Science

Doxycycline, part of the tetracycline antibiotic family, can cause photosensitivity — meaning your skin becomes more sensitive to sunlight.
With darker skin tones, prolonged exposure or high cumulative doses can sometimes lead to hyperpigmentation — patches of darker coloration that can linger long after treatment ends.

👩🏽‍⚕️ Why This Happens

The drug may accumulate in the skin or bind with iron in tissues, producing pigment deposits.
This is more noticeable in medium to darker skin tones due to higher baseline melanin activity.

☀️ What You Can Do

Use sunscreen daily (SPF 30+). Even on cloudy days.
Avoid unnecessary sun exposure while on doxycycline.
Talk to your dermatologist if you notice dark patches, nail discoloration, or unusual skin changes.
If pigmentation develops, topical brighteners, chemical peels, or laser treatments may help — but only under medical guidance.

***If you tend towards hyperpigmentation and have a darker skin tone, avoid this med if you can and ask for an alternative first ***

02/20/2026

For those who need to read this or be reminded of this today 🤎