Is this melasma or PIH? (Photo)

Question

I got this pigmentation from 1.Restylane Skin Booster - the doctor was very aggressive, I was bruising and bleed a lot. Day after I noticed some dark pigment around treatment area. 2.Acne Scar Treatment - another doctor performed ablative laser for me for 2 sessions. each season he used CO2 combine with YAG. He was aggressive too. My concern is 1.Is mesotherapy injection like Restylane skin booster can cause hyper pigment? 2.According to the picture, Do you think it is just a PIH or melasma?

Rita Rakus, MBBS · Answer

From the photograph you sent and your description of the treatment you received this would appear to be PIH as the result of your skin increasing melanin production in an effort to protect itself from 'injury'.
If it does not fade naturally then PIH treatment is usually a 3 step approach comprising a daily sunscreen, regular exfoliation (peels, AHA etc.) and melanin suppressants (hydroquinone, retinoids, Vit C etc.)  A dermatologist will be able to advise you further if required.

Monika Soni, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. From your photo, it appears you PIH from the trauma your skin incurred from your various procedures. This will fade gradually over time. Please remember to protect your skin from the sun and use skincare products to promote healing. I recommend following up with your treating physician for proper diagnosis and treatment. Best of Luck!

Gabriel Chiu, DO · Answer

Thank you for your inquiry.  You have PIH which results from the trauma that your skin incurred from the various procedures. This will gradually fade with time, given that you are protecting the skin from the sun and using skincare products to promote healing.

Jared Mallalieu, DO · Answer

Thanks for posting your photo. This appears to be more of a post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation give your history of laser and injections. Unless you are taking hormones, it would be unlikely for you to develop melasma. Best of luck, Dr. M

Is this melasma or PIH? (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: PIH

Answer: PIH

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Is this melasma or PIH? (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: PIH

Answer: PIH

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Restylane

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