Hi.. Welcome to HEALTHCARE MAGIC.. I have gone through your query and can understand your concerns.. As per your complain as you have used a steroid based cream for a longer duration, it has led to steroid dependence and due to it there seems to be withdrawal side effects when you do not use the cream and the increased pigmentation and dark spots seems to be due to it.. I would still suggest you not to use these creams again, although you may experience pigmentation and can be annoying but it would be better if you keep patience.. You can start using other depigmenting creams like start washing your face with Salicylic acid and glycolic acid containing facewash.. Apply creams containing Kojic acid, glycolic acid and arbutin. Apply Azelic acid containing creams. You can apply Vitamin E gel at night.. Exfoliate your skin twice a week.. Apply sunscreen lotion when exposed to sun.. You can also go or Chemical peeling and Microdermabrasion.. Hope this information helps.. Thanks and regards. Dr.Honey Nandwani Arora..