Upper Lip Hyperpigmentation After Laser Hair Removal Doctor Answers, Tips
Laser Hair Removal: Q&A
Ask a Question

Upper Lip Hyperpigmentation After Laser Hair Removal

I have developed hyperpigmentation on my upper lip area after 9 laser hair removal treatments. For the past 4 years, I have tried hydroquinone 4%, kojic acid, microdermabrasion, IPL, palomar laser, tretinoin and Obagi products. I never leave the house without using Elta sunscreen.

The area above my lip is now drier than the rest of my face and I feel a burning, tingling sensation when I am warm. Makeup does not fully cover the dark shading. I have medium, sensitive skin and rosacea. I am 44 years old. I am at my wits end and don't know what to do at this point.

I now have one plastic surgeon/skin specialist recommending Fraxel laser and one dermatologist recommending a chemical peel. Which between the two would work? Any suggestions would be appreciated.

2 Doctor Answers | Asked by lr in Plano, TX
+2

A difficult problem that requires special approach

Ir, It would be very important to see the extent of the hyperpigmentation and your skin type first, as well as establish whether it is melasma or post inflammatory hyperpigmentation. In addition to religious sunscreen usage, it is also important to use sunscreens that are physical blockers and not chemical blockers. The difference is, physical blockers actually reflect UV and chemical blockers absorb and convert UV to heat, which can make pigmentation (especially melasma) worse in... more
+1

Pigmentation and laser burns after laser hair removal

Upper lip pigmentation can be a result of hormones, inflammation, sun exposure, and laser treatments.  I would advise a prescription topical cream regimen twice daily.

You might also like...

Real Stories

Laser Hair Removal has been a life saver! - Portland, OR

Laser Hair removal has always interested me. In high school I was on the swim team and I...

Before + After Photos

View 38 Laser Hair Removal photos
Doctors will not see your comments on their answers. If you'd like to follow up, please go here to ask another question.

Comments (0)

Ask a Question

Welcome Back

Sign in with Facebook

Your information remains private and will not be posted without your permission.

Forgot your password?

Don't have an account? Create one now.

Join RealSelf

Join with Facebook

Your information remains private and will not be posted without your permission.

Please enter a valid email address
 Did you mean ?

By creating an account, you are indicating that you have read and accept the RealSelf Terms of Use.

Already a member? Sign In.

Retrieve your password

Enter your username or email address and we will send you a link to login.

Check your email

Check your email. We've sent you a link to reset your password.

Ok