Hyperpigmentation after Contour TRL - treatment options?

Question

I recently had Contour TRL resurfacing on Jan 20th to remove fine/deep lines. Everything went great except I hyper-pigmented around my eyes a little on the outer orbital area. I'm using Glytone hydro-Q (sp?) lightening cream at night to help reduce the hyper-pigmentation and daily zinc oxide sunscreen. My laser specialist says this will work itself out and to not worry. Will it? Any other treatment recommendations? How about BBL? If so, how soon? What about Retinol to turn the skin over? Thk you

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Fractional laser is an amazing and highly effective treatment in our office. We use the laser treatment to help with acne scars, large pores, fine wrinkles, tissue collagen loss, scars, sebaceous hyperplasia, active acne, and for brightening dark pigmentation. Although there are very strong fractional lasers such as CO2 laser, we use lighter treatments for corrective skincare and maintenance of results. Our Thulium fractional laser, clear and brilliant laser, and Ultra Thulium laser are excellent options in our clinic. We also perform CO2 fractional and erbium depending on skin tone and tolerance for downtime. Patients do have to use a Melarase cream before and after treatment to help further reduce pigmentation after laser. Dark spots can improve with these treatments. I recommend fractional laser for incisional scars as well, especially after plastic surgery.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

This is difficult to answer without pictures and needs an in-person evaluation. Hyperpigmentation can be improved with a combination of lasers, Aerolase, microneedling/prp, skin lightening, peels, and skin care. Sun protection is essential. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with an acne scarring expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Val Alexander Daniyar, DMD · Answer

Since you had a procedure done so recently I believe what you do right now is sufficient. Such conditions resolve on their own or with minimal use of tyrosinase inhibitors and good UV protection. Remember that skin around eyes is very delicate and getting too aggressive may some other issues. If , however, your condition lingers than use of BBL might also be considered.

Robert G. Aycock, MD, FACS · Answer

A combination of hydroquinone, hydrocortizone and tretnoin may help with post inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Some of these are prescription products so the best way is to follow up with your doctor to track your progress with the topical creams.

Davin Lim, MBBS, FACD - Account Suspended · Answer

This is very common especially in darker skin types, almost universally seen, even in lighter skin types, pigmentation changes can occur and last for up to 6 months - depending on the depth of laser, skin type of patients and sun exposure. I would follow your specialist advice. I also take monthly photos, you will see the PIH improving in the next few weeks. Dr Davin Lim. Brisbane. Australia.

Hyperpigmentation after Contour TRL - treatment options?

Answers (5)

Answer: Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation

Answer: Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation

Answer: Early days, listen to your specialist for advice.

Answer: Early days, listen to your specialist for advice.

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Everything you need to know about Laser Resurfacing

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Hyperpigmentation after Contour TRL - treatment options?

Answers (5)

Answer: Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation

Answer: Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation

Answer: Early days, listen to your specialist for advice.

Answer: Early days, listen to your specialist for advice.

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Laser Resurfacing

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.