Purple-Black Discoloration on Inner Thigh: Causes and Concerns

The inner thigh has turned purple-black?

Last September, the inner side of my right thigh became red and had broken skin.
Initially, it was itchy, so I applied a cooling ointment for relief.
However, after it healed, the affected area turned a purplish-black color, resembling a bruise.
Generally, I don't experience much discomfort during daily activities, but after showering, it becomes so itchy that I can't resist scratching it.
Since it hasn't improved for a while, I would like to know if this is serious.
Currently, I have observed that the dark area has not spread.

Yuan, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/01/17

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology

Without actually seeing the lesion, it is impossible to determine the issue.
If it is very concerning, please seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Only after an examination can the problem be identified and addressed.

Reply Date: 2018/01/17

More Info

The purple-black discoloration you are observing on the inner thigh, especially following a previous injury, can be concerning and warrants careful consideration. Based on your description, it seems that the discoloration may be a result of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), which is a common skin condition that occurs after an injury or inflammation. When the skin is injured, the body responds by increasing melanin production in the affected area, leading to darker pigmentation. This is particularly common in individuals with darker skin tones.

The fact that you experienced redness and itching initially suggests that there was some form of dermatitis or irritation, which could have been due to friction, an allergic reaction, or even an infection. After the initial healing, the skin can sometimes react by producing excess pigment, resulting in the purple-black discoloration you are now seeing. This is generally not harmful and often resolves over time, but it can take several months to fade.

However, the persistent itching you are experiencing after bathing is a point of concern. Itching can indicate several things, including dryness, irritation, or even a secondary infection. If the area is dry, it may be beneficial to apply a gentle moisturizer to help soothe the skin. On the other hand, if the itching is severe or accompanied by other symptoms such as increased redness, swelling, or discharge, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation.

In terms of severity, if the discoloration has not expanded and you are not experiencing significant discomfort, it may not be serious. However, it is essential to monitor the area for any changes. If you notice any new symptoms or if the discoloration begins to spread, you should seek medical advice. A dermatologist can provide a thorough examination and may suggest treatments such as topical corticosteroids to reduce inflammation or other therapies to address the pigmentation.

In summary, while the purple-black discoloration on your inner thigh is likely a result of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation following your previous skin injury, the persistent itching is a symptom that should not be ignored. Keeping the area moisturized and monitoring for any changes is advisable. If symptoms persist or worsen, consulting a dermatologist would be the best course of action to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.

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