How to Treat Burn Discolorations from IPL Hair Removal Treatment on Bikini Area?

I've gotten the laser hair removal treatment on my bikini area on Friday (today is Sunday) with the IPL machine. I am a light-skinned Asian and I'm worried about permanent hyperpigmentation on my bikini area, as I found out later that Friday that I have developed about 4 brown/purplish, slightly raised splotches where the laser head had been. I have had this treatment done 3 times before and never experienced any burns. Should I be worried that these will be permanent or how should I treat them?

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bikini line hyperpigmentation Asian discoloration 3 days post-op expectation

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2 Doctor Answers | Asked by LilAznGurl in Los Angeles, CA

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Laser Hair Removal

You may need to see your Dermatologist for an evaluation. If the spots are pigment forming, we usually use a mild steroid like 1% hydrocortisone for a week, off a week, on a week and off a week, and use a bleach cream after all is healed. For your skin, a 1064 Yag or 810 diode are the safest lasers to use. Avoid IPL devices.

Burns from laser hair removal

Laser hair removal can cause burns on the skin for various reasons. Fortunately they are usually superficial and rarely cause scarring. Hydroquinone cream may help if there is increased pigmentation that persists. Be careful to use a good sunscreen to protect the new skin from developing excess pigmentation.