Should I discontinue laser hair removal sessions after experiencing itchiness then darkening of (Asian) skin? (photo)

Question

This was my fourth session but first time getting these negative results. Should I continue sessions but with a better provider or discontinue and treat the darkening skin? Or both? What treatments should I get? How likely am I to be able to fully and permanently recover the skin to its original color?

Laura Riehm, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and posting a picture.  The itching is somewhat normal.  The darkening of skin would be considered a complication.  It looks and sounds like you might have Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH).  To be safe, you should seek out a laser vs. IPL to help avoid complications for Laser Hair Removal.  Almost all newer lasers are safe for all skin types and have features built in (such as sapphire cooling tips) to make them more comfortable.  Some of the newer technology is also more efficient, allowing for lower energy settings to be used with better results and less discomfort.  With modern equipment, your treatment should only be mildly uncomfortable, but not painful.  We never use numbing cream for LHR.  We want our patients to be able to tell us if they feel pain or an unusual level of discomfort. We recommend finding an experienced and reputable provider in your area with updated equipment.  A consistent overlapping technique is the key to avoiding patchiness in LHR.   Calibration and power of the laser is important for a safe, comfortable and effective treatment.  Find out what laser they will use and if it is under a maintenance contract.  If their laser isn’t calibrated on a regular basis or is underpowered, your treatment may be painful or inefficient. After a series of 6-8 initial treatments, you may need a touch up every 3-5 yearsPicoSure Flat or FOCUS lens treatments should be able to take care of PIH easily with almost no risk.  FOCUS lens treatments have the extra benefit of reducing the underlying scar tissue.  This is one of our go to treatments for patients older than 40 and worried about the signs of aging.  This laser is safe for all skin types.  Start with sunscreen every day!  Once you have treated your hyperpigmentation to your satisfaction, you will probably need a follow treatment every 6 to 12 months depending your level of re-pigmentation.  Best of luck.

Maha S. Shakir, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for the question. This looks like Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation. Propably the setting was too high for you skin type. Vectus laser hair removal system is for all skin type. You can look for provider who has this system. Most of the time the skin darkening will resolve but might take several months. You can use picosure laser to help treat this darkened area. Good luck.

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Should I discontinue laser hair removal sessions after experiencing itchiness then darkening of (Asian) skin? (photo)

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Should I discontinue laser hair removal sessions after experiencing itchiness then darkening of (Asian) skin? (photo)

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Everything you need to know about Laser Hair Removal

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