Hypopigmentation from Laser Hair Removal Burns

I had laser hair removal on my arm almost 6 months ago. The burn areas have healed, but now I am left with white areas that will not fade or tan. Is there anything that can be done to fix this embarrassing mistake?

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burn hypopigmentation 6 months post-op

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2 Doctor Answers | Asked by MSM in Tulsa, OK

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Fixing white scars after Laser Hair Removal

Hi MSM. "Hypopigmented" or white are an unfortunate potential side effect of laser hair removal treatments that occurs when the laser or settings are not correct for your skin type. Although these types of scars are tough to treat, there is hope and we do have a suggestion for you. We're not sure if any dermatologists in your area have the "Excimer" laser, but call around as much as you can to find it. The Excimer laser is used to repigment the skin patients that have... more

Harold J. Kaplan, MD

4 reviews

Los Angeles Facial Plastic Surgeon

www.celibre.com

Unfortunately your options are limited.

Thanks for your question. It is unfortunate that you went through a burn experience with laser hair removal and have been left with what we term, "post-inflammatory hypopigmentation" and possibly some scarring. It is very common to be left with some hypopigmentation after this procedure if there is a degree of burning involved, but if there was scabbing and wound healing involved, then it is very possible that some degree of scarring has resulted. In the case of post-inflammatory... more

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hypopigmentation1111 2 Oct 2012

I had hypo-pigmentation for laser burn and after 4 months when the marks didnt disappear, the doctor said they would be permanent. So I decided to try and sun tan the area. I put lots and lots of sunscreen around the marks (it was time consuming) and then tanned myself for about 40 minutes each time. In about 6 session the marks have completely gone. My skin (olive- asian skin) is almost normal. I can still see little difference, but others cant. Each day it gets even better and hopefully it shoul dbe gone soon. I will try and post my comments on all possible chat sites because I understand how painful and scary it is to be there. First the burn, then the painful blister and the thought of looking leopard skin for ever. Hope you find my post hopeful.

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