Is this a burn from laser hair removal? (Photos)

Question

I had laser hair removal on my lower legs 3 weeks ago. The day after I had the laser hair removal I broke out with itchy bumpy hives. These hives took about a week to stop itching and they went away after about 10 days. I am now left with hyperpigmentation marks. Are these actually burns and not hives? I attached photos from 2 days and 4 days after the procedure. What can I use to fade the marks?

Thomas Wright, MD · Answer

It appears that you have a mild burn from the laser.  Mild burns like yours almost always heal well. Please keep the skin moisturized and out of the sun.  Wishing you a speedy recovery.

Elham Jafari, MD · Answer

Hi and thank you for your question and pictures! While you need to do a follow up with your physician, based on the picture and the description, the red spots appears to be folliculitis (inflammation of hair follicles) which does happen from time to time after laser hair removal as body is reacting to the damage done to the hair follicle by the laser. Folliculitis is generally self-limiting and clears up within 2-3 weeks but sometime it might get infected in which case additional treatments might be needed. Please follow up with your physician and you should be ok! I hope it helps and good luck!

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

I recommend getting a consultation with a cosmetic dermatologist. Burns need a combination of:
1) healing lasers and light such as aerolase or laser genesis and LED therapy with light stim
2) topical growth factors, stem cells, antioxidants
3) oxygen facials
4) platelet rich plasma and A cell topically
5) sun protection
After 6-12 weeks you can treat for hyperpigmentation with cosmelan peels, hydroquinone, retinol or non ablative lasers like clear and brilliant or radiofrequency like venus viva. Best, Dr. Emer

Karthik Ram, MRCS, DNB · Answer

Hi, I am sorry that you have developed these burn marks. This will fade out eventually. All you need to do is to use a good moisturiser and a sunscreen to avoid the scar turning worse.  Meet your provider. Take care.

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