2 weeks ago, I had laser hair removal on my legs. The next day, I noticed burns on my legs. I'm concerned because they don't seem to get getting better. I visited my doctor and she prescribed Cicaplast but that too, doesn't seem to be helping. I'm honestly so devastated because I'm terrified my legs will be scarred. Would appreciate a prognosis / advice / etc immensely! Thank you in advance!
August 31, 2018
Answer: Laser hair removal burn Good news! It doesn't look like you will be scarred. The injured area is darker--which is actually a good sign. That means the burn was not deep enough to kill the melanocytes, it really just irritated those pigment producing cells so they are spitting out more pigment. If the pigment cells are destroyed you would be left with a permanent white spot. The big question is how long will those cells take to settle down after everything is healed up. If they calm down right away (which the cicaplast is probably helping them to do) the pigment will fade as the skin cells turn over and it may take only 1 to 2 skin cycles (6 to 12 weeks) to lighten up. If the pigment cells 'hold a grude' and stay irritated it may take longer. Usually the darker your skin base the more stubborn the cells are, and the longer it takes to lighten. On the off chance that these cells are permanently hyperactive there are prescription creams that are effective at lightening the area. At your next appointment discuss the possible future need for a prescription cream with your doctor.
Helpful 1 person found this helpful
August 31, 2018
Answer: Laser hair removal burn Good news! It doesn't look like you will be scarred. The injured area is darker--which is actually a good sign. That means the burn was not deep enough to kill the melanocytes, it really just irritated those pigment producing cells so they are spitting out more pigment. If the pigment cells are destroyed you would be left with a permanent white spot. The big question is how long will those cells take to settle down after everything is healed up. If they calm down right away (which the cicaplast is probably helping them to do) the pigment will fade as the skin cells turn over and it may take only 1 to 2 skin cycles (6 to 12 weeks) to lighten up. If the pigment cells 'hold a grude' and stay irritated it may take longer. Usually the darker your skin base the more stubborn the cells are, and the longer it takes to lighten. On the off chance that these cells are permanently hyperactive there are prescription creams that are effective at lightening the area. At your next appointment discuss the possible future need for a prescription cream with your doctor.
Helpful 1 person found this helpful
