Will hyperpigmentation go away after microneedling on fair skin?

Question

I am a 44 yr old blonde, pale skinned woman. I've never had hyperpigmentation. I had Microneedling with PRP 3 weeks ago and I now have large dark patches around my chin and mouth (always a sensitive area for me). The clinic says they'll go away with more treatments and bleaching agents, but I don't see that backed up online. They say the pigmentation just has to come to the surface and then be exfoliated away. Is that right? Never had issues with dark patches before!

Aldo Guerra, MD · Answer

Microneedling works for dark spots on the face. However, most pigmented areas and blotches require a multimodal approach. I suggest you see an expert for your treatments. Best wishes. Dr. ALDO

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

This is difficult to answer without pictures. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a cosmetic dermatologist. Hyperpigmentation can be improved with a combination of lasers, Cosmelan, Aerolase, microneedling/prp, skin lightening, peels, and skin care. Sun protection is essential.  Best, Dr. Emer

Laura Riehm, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question.  Pictures would have been extremely helpful.  It is possible that your pigment is on the road to recovery.  We often warm patients after their laser treatment that their pigment will probably get darker as it travels closer to the surface to be expelled.  We feel that hyperpigmentation is best treated with an energy device.  If you have lighter skin, Skin Types I-III, you are probably a candidate for an IPL PhotoFacial.  It has been used for years on lighter skinned individuals for color correction.  The next level up would be something like the PicoSure FOCUS treatment.  It is safe for all skin types and has the added benefit gently resurfacing fine lines/wrinkles and acne scars while correcting brown pigment.  Best of luck.

Davin Lim, MBBS, FACD - Account Suspended · Answer

Yes, it will settle in time. Especially if non energy based microneedling was used. Your skin type and past history is on yours side. See a dermatologist for some simple agents. Simple solutions include -1. SPF 50 plus 2 times a day, hats, sun avoidance2. HQ 4- 8% for only 2-4 weeks3. Laser (if required) QSL as directed. Most likely simple measures 1 and 2  will sort thing out quickly. All the best, Dr Davin Lim. Brisbane. Australia.

Theodore Staahl, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

The good news is that given that you're light skinned it is very likely that your hyperpigmentation can be treated effectively.  Skin products with natural lighteners or bleaching creams are often used as a first line.  If things persist you can consider intense pulse light (IPL) type treatments as well.  Be sure to avoid sun exposure after your procedures and wear sunblock with an spf 30 or higher on a daily basis.  
I would schedule a follow up with your provider to see if there are products that they would recommend at this point in time.

Will hyperpigmentation go away after microneedling on fair skin?

Answers (5)