Is Hyperpigmentation After Laser Hair Removal Permanent?

Question

Its been 4 weeks since treatment. At first the areas treated on my stomach were red, some faded but then there are several trip marks from where she zapped me that have darkened to a brown color. I am wondering will this be permanent or will it fade away? How long does it usually take to fade away completely? Gentlease laser was used on me. I had to shave my whole stomach but I am worried that if I stop treatment, my stomach hair will darken or appear thicker.

Timothy Jochen, MD · Answer

Hyperpigmentation after laser hair removal usually is not permanent.  It&rsquo;s better for your doctor or dermatologist to evaluate your skin first, but the majority of the time, it is transient.  Using sunscreen on a consistent daily basis and staying out of the sun helps.  Other things that will help with hyperpigmentation are bleaching agents such as hydroquinone like Obagi #3 and Retin-A, but make sure you have a physician evaluate your skin condition to make sure you are treating it with the correct products.

Sanusi Umar, MD · Answer

Fortunately, hyperpigmentation is not permanent in most cases.  It is a result of your skin producing more melanin in response to the heat from the laser.  Your body will work to restore homeostasis and the pigmentation will fade. Protect yourself from the sun to prevent the dark areas from getting worse. Talk to your dermatologist to see what topical  treatments might be appropriate.

Scott Trimas, MD · Answer

Typically hyperpigmentation following laser hair removal is temporary and resolves within 4 to 6 weeks. It may be helpful to use low dose steroid creams and bleaching creams to hasten resolution since yours has persisted but I would discuss with your treating physician.

Hratch Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Some are prone to get hyperpigmentation and it depends on your skin type. 
It is important to follow up with the treating physician and if you had it at a non medical facility, find a physician to treat you. The All-You-Need Brightening Kit from Kare Skin will help and you need adequate sun protection (Spectrase) to minimize post inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

Hardik Soni, MD · Answer

Hyperpigmentation after laser hair removal usually is not permanent. The risks of laser treatment include pigment changes and scarring.  Permanent side effects are rare. It is a result of your skin producing more melanin in response to the heat from the laser.  Your body will work to restore homeostasis and the pigmentation will fade. I advise to have yourself protected from the sun to prevent the dark areas from getting worse.

Is Hyperpigmentation After Laser Hair Removal Permanent?

Answers (8)

Answer: Post laser hair removal pigmentation

Answer: Post laser hair removal pigmentation

Answer: Hyperpigmentation After Laser Hair Removal

Answer: Hyperpigmentation After Laser Hair Removal

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Is Hyperpigmentation After Laser Hair Removal Permanent?

Answers (8)

Answer: Post laser hair removal pigmentation

Answer: Post laser hair removal pigmentation

Answer: Hyperpigmentation After Laser Hair Removal

Answer: Hyperpigmentation After Laser Hair Removal

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Laser Hair Removal

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