Do you see dark marks on your complexion following a breakout, injury, or rash? This is known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), where your skin produces extra melanin due to inflammation. Although these spots will eventually go away, they tend to remain for months and even years. The good news is that laser treatment for pigmentation is a highly effective way of accelerating the disappearing process and bringing back an even complexion.
Let’s explore how laser therapy works for PIH, its benefits, and what to expect from the procedure.
Understanding Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation
PIH appears as dark brown, red, or purple spots on the skin after an inflammatory reaction, such as acne, burns, eczema, or allergic reactions. Unlike other types of pigmentation, PIH is not a scar—it results from increased melanin production rather than damage to skin tissue.
Some common triggers of PIH include:
- Acne breakouts
- Skin burns or injuries
- Insect bites
- Chemical peels or rough skin treatments
- Prolonged sun exposure on previously irritated skin
How Laser Therapy Helps with PIH?
Laser treatment for pigmentation is an outpatient technique that specifically treats and dissolves melanin clusters so that they are naturally broken down and released from the body. It's most useful when it comes to treating PIH since it delivers energy deep within the skin but won't lead to further trauma.
Types of Laser Treatments for PIH
1. Fractional Laser Therapy
- Treats by producing minuscule micro-injuries to the skin that stimulate collagen development and cell renewal.
- Aids in lightening pigmentation along with enhancing the texture of the skin.
- Best for recalcitrant or deeply embedded PIH.
2. Q-Switched Nd:YAG Laser
- Hits and shatters unwanted melanin with high-energy pulses of light.
- Appropriate for all types of skin and treats superficial and deep pigmentation effectively.
- Limited downtime and rapid recovery.
3. Pico Laser Technology
- Imparts picosecond-length pulses of laser energy that blast melanin deposits.
- Works quicker than conventional lasers and is less likely to cause skin irritation.
- Safe for darker skin types that are more likely to develop pigmentation problems.
4. IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) Therapy
- Targets pigmentation using multiple wavelengths of light.
- Ideal for treating mild PIH and patchy skin tone.
- Also enhances overall skin clarity and radiance.
Advantages of Laser Therapy for PIH
- Quick and efficient: Results within weeks as opposed to months or years with topical treatments.
- Minimally invasive: No cuts or brutal chemicals.
- Able for all skin types: New laser technologies are gentle enough for fair skin as well as darker complexions.
- Collagen boost: Enhances texture and elasticity of the skin and pigmentation reduction.
What to Expect During the Treatment?
Before the Session
- Meet with a dermatologist for a consultation to identify the most appropriate laser for your skin type and degree of pigmentation.
- Sun protection is a must—keep out of direct sunlight to avoid making pigmentation worse prior to treatment.
- In some cases, a patch test will be conducted to determine the sensitivity of your skin.
At the Procedure
- The cooling gel might be put on the skin prior to laser treatment.
- The laser machine glides over the treatment area and delivers controlled bursts of energy.
- You might experience slight tingling or heat but, in most cases, it is well tolerated.
- Sessions range from 15 to 45 minutes, depending on the area being treated.
Post-Treatment
- Redness or swelling, in some cases, subsides within a few hours to a couple of days.
- Protect the skin from the sun—apply broad-spectrum sunscreen every day to stop new pigmentation.
- Gentle cleansers and moisturizing serums in a skincare regimen can support healing.
- Results start within a few weeks, with complete improvement after several sessions.
How Many Sessions Are Needed?
The number of laser treatments varies according to the extent of PIH, skin type, and technology employed. On average:
- Mild pigmentation: 2-3 treatments
- Moderate pigmentation: 4-6 treatments
- Deep-set or stubborn pigmentation: 6+ treatments
Treatments are spaced at 4-6 weeks for the skin to heal and rejuvenate effectively.
Post-Treatment Care Tips
To preserve effects and avoid new pigmentation, observe these skincare tips:
- Wear SPF 30+ sunscreen at all times, even indoors.
- Avoid scratching the skin to avoid aggravating the inflammation.
- Apply non-irritating, gentle skincare products.
- Drink plenty of water and maintain a healthy diet for skin recovery.
- Arrange for follow-up treatment if needed to achieve the best results.
Conclusion
For individuals with post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, laser treatment for pigmentation provides a safe, effective, and long-term solution. Using advanced laser technology, you can have clearer, even skin without invasive treatments or long waiting times. At Metamorphosis Clinic, qualified practitioners tailor laser therapy to individual skin issues for the best results with minimal downtime.