Hyperpigmentation after tattoo removal, how can I treat this? (photos)

It's difficult to tell from your photos, but if this is hyperpigmentation and not residual ink, it can be improved with lasers, skin lightening, peels and microneedling/prp. Sun protection is essential. See an expert for a formal evaluation. Best, Dr. Emer

 It would be easier to answer your question if you provided a photo. It is unclear when you had your last session, sometimes area appears irritated, red or darker for some time after the treatment. It may be shading and that means that you still need additional treatment to remove your tattoo. You did not mention what laser is being used either. I advise you to lok into Pico lasers. Even if it is hyperpigmentation, this can be fixed with pico lasers as well. It is of crucial importance that your provider is experienced and board certified provider. Good luck!

It would be easier to answer your question if you provided a photo. It is unclear when you had your last session, sometimes area appears irritated, red or darker for some time after the treatment. It may be shading and that means that you still need additional treatment to remove your tattoo. You did not mention what laser is being used either. I advise you to lok into Pico lasers. Even if it is hyperpigmentation, this can be fixed with pico lasers as well. It is of crucial importance that your provider is experienced and board certified provider. Good luck! 

Thanks for your question and posting pictures.  You did not mention what type laser was used with your treatment.  We have seen tattoo ink change exactly in the same manner.  You just started an 18 month minimum process to remove permanent ink.  Your tattoo is going to look jacked up for the next year.  If you are using a picosecond laser, your arm will look almost completely normal when you are done.  I wouldn't be concerned in the slightest about hyperpigmentation.  We use a PicoSure with the FOCUS lens to eliminate pigment, not add it.  What you are seeing is just the ink being broken down.  Make sure you use an experienced facility with doctor supervision.  They would be able to tell you this result is completely normal.  Best of luck and be patient!

I would start on skin bleachers such as hydroquinone. If you still want the tattoo removed, I would proceed and deal with the pigmentation later. The laser might improve this as time goes on. I agree, it might have been too aggressive at first. A 1064 laser is a good wavelength for treating PIH. I would make sure that this wavelength is used for the black ink and that the laser has both pico and nanosecond capabilities.

Hyperpigmentaiton following tattoo removal can be either PIH (post inflammatory hyperpigmentation), or residual ink for the tattoo itself.  PIH will respond to the correct Q-Switched or picosecond laser combined with skin bleach and sun protection.  Residual tattoo ink may require switching to a different type of laser (pico vs. nano) or a different wavelength (755, 532, 1064, 694nm).  Protection from the sun before, during and following treatment is important.  The sun stimulates more PIH.