M.S.
J.,
Oh, I was so there and am still a little. I lived with the upper chin mask from July 02 (while pregnant) until oh, recently. I have been pregnant or nursing since 2002 so I wasn't able to do what my dermatoligist recommended. Which was a lightning gel and hydroquinonine (spelling is wrong), I did however use this for a short while a few months ago, then stopped while trying to get pregnant and I now use the Arbonne anti-aging line which I think has helped tremendously. I also don't go anywhere w/out sunblock on my face, any sun you get will make the dark spots darker! Also, if you are still nursing, that can contribute. My son stopped nursing in May, so I think both that and the Arbonne I'm using has really helped.
I do have the brown spots on my cheeks still but they seem to be getting a little better. I only really cared about the upper lip though since it always looked like I had a mustache! I'm sure you understand!
See a dermatologist if you haven't already. The usual treatment plan that I mentioned above is not expensive at all.
M.