Burns and worsened hyperpigmentation from PicoSure laser, no improvement after 12 months

Question

I had a few spots of PIH on my legs so I bought 6 sessions of PicoSure laser with FOCUS lens. After each session, my hyperpigmentation became increasingly worse and the spots grew 2-3x in size. Even spots that had no PIH blistered and scabbed. I expressed concern after each treatment but kept getting reassured by the Dr. that these were the expected results. The last two sessions were very painful for a week and caused my skin to completely come off as if it was burned. Why is this happening?

James Okamoto, MD · Answer

Picosure lasers are safe for all skin types, and ideal for PIH treatment. You may experience some redness following treatment, however I have NEVER seen blisters form from this treatment. My two concerns would be if there is something wrong with their laser, or if there is something unique to your skin making it hypersensitive to pressure. After Picosure treatment the spots will initially become darker as the pigment comes up to the surface, but then it flakes off making the spot lighter than before.

Burns and worsened hyperpigmentation from PicoSure laser, no improvement after 12 months

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