Will These Dark Spots and Dark Swollen Areas Scar? (photo)

I had my last hair removal session and after 4 days this is what my right underarm looks like (see attached photo). There are dark black spots and it has started peeling after I have applied vaseline. I used vaseline because that is what my doctor recommended since I informed him that my underarms were unbearably itchy and it would hurt at times. In addition to the obvious black spots, there are areas where it made my skin darker and I was wondering if this was permanent? Thank you!

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2 Doctor Answers | Asked by notyourstar

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Dark spots and swollen areas post hair removal treatment

It sounds to me like you were overtreated, meaning the settings on the laser were simply too high. Based on your photos, I don't think anything permanent has been done to harm you though. I would suggest rather than Vaseline, you try over the counter hydrocortisone 1% which is good for calming itching. Additionally, it won't be pleasant, but avoid deodorant for a few days to allow the site to heal better. Your physician recommended Vaseline and that's fine to apply too, to keep... more

Dark spots after laser hair removal

Potential risks of laser hair removal include temporary or permanent hypo-pigmentation or hyper-pigmentation. This can occur even when optimal laser treatment parameters are used. Fortunately most instances of hyperpigmentation are temporary and tend to fade over time. We instruct all our patients to make sure the area has had no sun exposure for one month prior and one month after the laser procedure. Daily use of an effective sunscreen is key, regardless as to whether you are going... more