Is it normal for a tattoo to fade in such way during tattoo removal, or is it hyperpigmentation? (Photos)

Hello, my name is Ranen and I am an aesthetic nurse at Aesthetic Skin in Chicago. t’s completely understandable to be concerned about changes in your skin during tattoo removal, especially if you’re noticing brown hues or discoloration. The good news is that some degree of color change is quite normal during the tattoo removal process, but there are a few things to consider when it comes to whether it’s part of the process or if it could indicate something else, like hyperpigmentation. Brown or Darker Pigment (Ink Breakdown):
What it is: As the laser breaks down the tattoo ink, some pigments (especially darker colors like black, green, or blue) can temporarily darken or change in color before they start to fade.
Why it happens: This occurs because the laser is breaking up the tattoo ink into smaller particles, which can appear darker as they are disrupted in the skin. In some cases, the pigment might shift toward a brownish hue as the ink is fragmented and processed by your body.
How long it lasts: This color change should be temporary and is usually just part of the healing process. The ink will gradually be eliminated by your body, and the skin should return to normal as the pigment fades over subsequent sessions.

Thank you for your message and for sharing the photo. Based on what I can see and your description, the brown hues you’re noticing after your fourth session of tattoo removal can be a normal part of the healing process. It may represent post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), which is relatively common, especially in individuals with medium to darker skin tones or after repeated laser treatments.

This discoloration typically fades over time, but we can also consider topical treatments to help accelerate the process and reduce pigmentation if it becomes persistent. Be sure to:

Keep the area moisturized

Avoid sun exposure and use SPF

Avoid picking or irritating the area

If you have any additional concerns or if the pigmentation darkens or worsens, feel free to schedule a follow-up so we can evaluate it in person or virtually.

Hello,

Yes, experiencing brown hues after your fourth session of laser tattoo removal is a common and generally normal part of the healing process.
The brownish tint you're noticing is often due to oxidation of the tattoo ink particles as they are broken down by the laser. As the ink fragments are processed by your body, they can oxidize and appear brown or blue before eventually fading away. This is a typical progression, especially with black ink tattoos.
Additionally, in individuals with medium to darker skin tones, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) can develop. This condition causes the treated area to darken temporarily due to the skin's healing response. PIH is usually temporary and fades over time - The brown discoloration typically diminishes within a few weeks to months as your body continues to eliminate the ink particles.