I have a dark birthmark. Should I get laser resurfacing, or would it suffice to just use skin-lightening cream?

Question

I have a birthmark on the bottom of my buttocks.The birth mark is raised. It is near the crease, actually just below, and is unsightly. For this reason, I have deviated from a young age from wearing swimsuits. I am African-American with a darker skin tone, and am worried that if I use skin lightening cream, I might damage that part of my skin. Yet I am also worried about finding the right doctor w/ the right laser. Also, what type of laser would you suggest on darker, skin tones?

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Fractional laser is an amazing and highly effective treatment in our office. We use the laser treatment to help with acne scars, large pores, fine wrinkles, tissue collagen loss, scars, sebaceous hyperplasia, active acne, and for brightening dark pigmentation. Although there are very strong fractional lasers such as CO2 laser, we use lighter treatments for corrective skincare and maintenance of results. Our Thulium fractional laser, clear and brilliant laser, and Ultra Thulium laser are excellent options in our clinic. We also perform CO2 fractional and erbium depending on skin tone and tolerance for downtime. Patients do have to use a Melarase cream before and after treatment to help further reduce pigmentation after laser. Dark spots can improve with these treatments. I recommend fractional laser for incisional scars as well, especially after plastic surgery.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Ross A. Clevens, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. Newer laser techniques do allow us to safely and effectively treat patients with darker skin tones. I suggest that you consult with your board certified facial plastic surgeon to determine the right laser type and treatment for you. 
Best wishes,

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

This needs an in-person evaluation. This may be improved with tattoo lasers. It will take a series of treatments. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a cosmetic dermatologist. Best, Dr. Emer

Stanley Kovak, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Since the spot is raised, it is most likely a mole. You should have it evaluated by a dermatologist to be sure it is safe to have it removed. Laser may not be the answer, it is more likely that you will need it to be surgically removed. As far a lightening creams, that can help the pigmentation, but will not decrease the elevation. Lasers are risky on dark skin; however, because it can result in scarring. It is possible to use a tattoo laser to lighten the pigment, but again, that would not decrease the elevation. I would definitely not use a resurfacing laser on you. Always be sure to see a reputable provider with the most up-to-date lasers and techniques. Best of luck to you!

Linda J. Banta, MD · Answer

It is best to get an in person evaluation to determine if the mole is benign or needs a biopsy or possible excision.  Some moles respond to laser treatment.  Please make an appointment with a dermatologist to get a definite diagnosis and treatment options.  Thank you for the question.

Laura Riehm, MD · Answer

Thanks for you question.  Unfortunately, you will need an in-person consultation.  We have lasers that work really well on correcting pigment, scar resurfacing and correcting texture.  In person, we could give you several recommendations.  Look for a doctor's office that has several different treatment options and good review.  We would probably recommend a series of PicoSure FOCUS or a combination of IPL & 1540nm fractional resurfacing treatments.  Best of luck.

Thomas D. Griffin Jr., MD · Answer

Without photos, it would be difficult to give a certain diagnosis but given your description it sounds as if you have a congenital mole. This type of a growth would not be amenable to treatment with either a laser or creams. I would consult a dermatologic surgeon or a plastic surgeon to determine whether it can be surgically excised.

Davin Lim, MBBS, FACD - Account Suspended · Answer

Some birthmarks can be easily treated with lasers, others are more resistant and some require surgery. A diagnosis is the most important aspect of birthmark management. Please see a Dermatologist for a diagnosis, then treatment options. All the best, Dr Davin S. Lim , Brisbane. Australia

I have a dark birthmark. Should I get laser resurfacing, or would it suffice to just use skin-lightening cream?

Answers (8)

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