Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation due to Photo Facial treatments

I am now 40, 3/4 Asian & 1/4 Caucasian and my skin is probably a medium Type 3. In Oct 2008, I purchased/started a package of 6 photo facial treatments (they call it IPO? not IPL), 2 Microdermabrasion treatments, and 2 Alpha peel treatments at a spa owned by a doctor, hoping this time, hyperpigmentation on my face would start fading. I couldn't see any noticeable effects after 3 photo facial treatments & 2 microdermabrasion treatments. Then, at my 4th photo facial treatment, the technician went very aggressive to see optimal results (She told me after the 4th treatment).

I was also recommended for a peel a week after that, and I did. It's been 3 weeks after the 4th Photo Facial session, and now I'm pretty sure I have PIH by my eyes as well as on my cheeks. Although a very, very heavy concealer can camouflage them to some degree, I would want to hide and cry every single day. During the course of my treatments, I was using 2 levels of bleaching cream (containing 5% or 8% hydroquinone & tretinoin) every other day and stopped using it 4 days prior to the next photo facial treatment. In addition, I've been using either SPF 45 or 58 every single day.

I have 2 Photo Facial treatments left at this doctor's spa. Is it still possible for the Photo Facial treatments at this spa to improve my PIH, or should I discontinue right away? If I should discontinue, what would be the effective treatment options left for me, given I have already tried Photo Facial, TCA peel, hydroquinone/tretinoin and Microdermabrasion? I desperately need professional help/opinions.

Thank you so much in advance for sharing your knowledge and experience.

1 answer to “Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation...”

A: Post inflammatory hyperpigmentation is a difficult situation

Andrew Campbell, MD

I'm sure that what you are describing is PIH (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation). First, an SPF of 45 or 58 is not what you need. You need a sun BLOCK, not a sun SCREEN. A block contains micronized zinc oxide and / or titanium dioxide and truly blocks the sun's rays. This needs to be worn daily from sun up... more

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