Do hispanics run the risk of hyperpigmentation when treating acne scars with laser treatments or more sensitive to the sun?

Question

I was looking forward for a fraxel or Dot laser but I have been told that since I'm hispanic that i run the risk of hyperpigmentation. So will I always have to wear sunscreen or stay away from sun after a laser treatment because of the risk of skin problems. One specialist told me she would do a series of micropen & DOT but put me on hydroquinone. Other specialist said they'd also put me on hydroquinone, then have a series of fraxel treatments. What is a safe treatment for hispanics?

William Groff, DO · Answer

Fraxel Re:Store is a very gentle laser that works wonderfully on Hispanic and darker skins. The settings should be adjusted based on your particular skin hue. Depending on the depth and age of your scar, microneedling and even subcision may be necessary. As a caveat, scars can be improved but they don't always resolve completely if they are very deep.As for sun avoidance and sun screen: Whether before Fraxel or after, whether light- or dark-skinned, everybody should be using sunscreen daily, avoiding the sun at peak hours, and using protective clothing such as hats and long sleeves. No ethnicity is immune to skin cancer. Be sure to consult a board-certified dermatologist who has a great deal of expertise treating Hispanic skin with Fraxel and other modalities to remove scars.

Kally Papantoniou, MD, FAAD · Answer

The Fraxel laser can increase risk for hyperpigmentation in certain skin types, and should be used with caution. If your provider offers microneedling, this will be a safer option with minimal risk for hyperpigmentation, and is effective for acne scarring. For better results microneedling can be paired with PRP.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

This is tough to answer without pictures and needs an in-person evaluation. Acne scars require a combination approach with lasers, microneedling/prp, subcision and fillers. Co2 is best for scars, but erbium is a great alternative for darker skin types. See an expert in acne scarring for a formal evaluation. Best, Dr. Emer

Karen Beasley, MD · Answer

Scars can be very difficult to treat, especially on darker skin because it is more prone to hyper- or hypo-pigmentation. However, I've had great success resolving or improving scars on Hispanic skin using Fraxel Re:Store on a low setting. Depending on how deep your scars are, you may also need microneedling or even dermal fillers to smooth them out. Whether you treat your scars or not, you should always use adequate sun protection, including daily sunscreen. As for the conflicting advice you've received, each specialist has his or her own favorite methods of treating the skin. Consulting several board-certified dermatologists, as you have been doing, is a wonderful way to find the perfect match for you.

Tarek M. Fakhouri, MD · Answer

Hi Gortiz,
Great question! Persons of color are at higher risk of hyperpigmentation with any laser treatment. However, if your board certified dermatologist is experienced and chooses the proper setting you should do great. You will have to protect yourself from the sun while healing and will benefit from using hydroquinone as your skin heals.
Almost any treatment can be safe in any skin type if it is done properly and carefully. Make sure the doctor you go to is experienced in Hispanic skin type and the treatments that he/she is promoting.
Take care!
Tarek

Do hispanics run the risk of hyperpigmentation when treating acne scars with laser treatments or more sensitive to the sun?

Answers (5)

Answer: Do Hispanics Run Risk of Hyperpigmentation When Treating Acne Scars? Fraxel Re:Store, Microneedling Will Help

Answer: Do Hispanics Run Risk of Hyperpigmentation When Treating Acne Scars? Fraxel Re:Store, Microneedling Will Help

Answer: Fraxel can be safe in Hispanic skin

Answer: Fraxel can be safe in Hispanic skin

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Do hispanics run the risk of hyperpigmentation when treating acne scars with laser treatments or more sensitive to the sun?

Answers (5)

Answer: Do Hispanics Run Risk of Hyperpigmentation When Treating Acne Scars? Fraxel Re:Store, Microneedling Will Help

Answer: Do Hispanics Run Risk of Hyperpigmentation When Treating Acne Scars? Fraxel Re:Store, Microneedling Will Help

Answer: Fraxel can be safe in Hispanic skin

Answer: Fraxel can be safe in Hispanic skin

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Fraxel Laser

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