Is red or dark skin normal during the healing process after laser skin resurfacing? When will the normal color return? (photo)

about 3-6 weeks after resurfacing you can get hyperpigmentation. I suggest you should get an appropriate skin care regimen and sun protection.  Clear and brilliant laser with microneedling/PRP help this resolve more quickly.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Thank you for sharing your concerns and posting your photo. You appear to be healing normally following your laser treatment. Continue using the Hydroquinone (as directed by your doctor), sunglasses and sunblock, Make sure to see your doctor for follow up. Good luck.

It is common to see some hyperpigmentation in patients with darker/olive skin tones after laser.  It usually starts to fade after a few weeks, and the hydroquinone should help.  Make sure you use sunblock too.  

I have ample experience using the Halo hybrid laser, and it is highly likely that patients with olive skin will see PIH (Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation) following their treatments. This is common with all lasers or energy treatments. Knowing this is why pretreatment of the skin is crucial to minimizing PIH. Ideally, you would have begun using the hydroquinone several weeks before your treatment. I also provide a post-procedure skin care kit to all patients to help manage these aspects of recovery. Your dark spots should begin fading soon but may take up to a year to fully resolve. Remember to stay out of the sun or wear a quality, broad spectrum sunscreen.

The redness is expected after resurfacing. Hydroquinone is a good start to lighten the darker spots. Try to use a physical block to protect your skin.