What are the risks for dermabrasion on black skin?

 There is increased risk of pigmentation issues. While Hyperpigmentation or darker spots is easier to treat and is manageable, hypopigmentation or lighter spots is difficult to treat. It is important to choose experienced provider especially when it comes to treating darker skin tones. Good luck!

There is increased risk of pigmentation issues. While Hyperpigmentation or darker spots is easier to treat and is manageable, hypopigmentation or lighter spots is difficult to treat. It is important to choose experienced provider especially when it comes to treating darker skin tones. Good luck! 

Thanks for your question. The major risk with any resurfacing procedure in dark-skinned people is alteration of the pigment. In dermabrasion, if you go too deep you can damage the melanocytes which are the pigment producing cells in your skin. This would result in a lighter area; in extreme cases the skin would then be white. Most experienced practitioners would know when to stop so you don't go too deep, but it is a risk nevertheless. The other thing you should know is that even when you do resurfacing appropriately, darker skinned people can then get a hyper pigmented area. This can be helped with prescription creams though. Good luck.