Why is my pigmentation getting darker after laser?

Author: Dr. General Dare I  |  Last update: Sunday, May 25, 2025

The temporary darkening phase occurs because the treatment is actively breaking down excess melanin, which initially appears darker before shedding. By understanding why pigmentation gets darker after IPL, you can better appreciate the process that leads to clearer, more radiant skin.

Can laser make hyperpigmentation worse?

The hyperpigmentation associated with melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation may be worsened by laser treatment, as the heat and energy can cause the pigment itself to become further entrenched in the skin.

Does hyperpigmentation get darker before it fades?

Does Hyperpigmentation Get Darker Before It Fades? Yes, sometimes, the body speeds up pigment production before the cells break down and fade. But sometimes, the dark spots can also fade without getting darker first.

Why is my pigmentation getting darker after laser treatment?

In the first few days following your laser treatment, you may notice that the pigmentation appears darker than before. This is caused by the treated pigment rising to the skin's surface as it breaks down, signalling the start of the healing process.

How long does it take for pigment to fade after laser?

Generally, pigmentation from laser treatments typically starts fading within 7 to 14 days. However, it may take several weeks or even months for complete fading, particularly in darker skin tones. Proper post-treatment care and sun protection are crucial in helping to speed up the process.

Melasma mistakes that can ruin your skin and make hyperpigmentation worse!

How long does it take for brown spots to fall off after laser?

In general, it can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks for the pigmentation to fade. BBL and laser treatment are not one-off treatments. Multiple sessions may be required to achieve optimal results.

What is the downtime for laser for hyperpigmentation?

Pico laser downtime refers to the time it takes for your skin to recover after a treatment session. For most patients, this period is brief, typically lasting between 24 to 48 hours. While some individuals may experience mild redness or swelling, these side effects usually subside within a day.

How to get rid of post laser hyperpigmentation?

[8] Hyperpigmentation is typically best treated with topical 4% hydroquinone, a bleaching agent, but may also be addressed with superficial chemical peels or concealment with cosmetics.

Can IPL make pigmentation worse?

So although some have seen results using IPL to treat melasma, one of the side effects is that it can make matters worse. Causing hyperpigmentation, a condition which is harder and takes longer to treat. This is why we choose to treat this type of face pigmentation with skin care products for great results.

How many laser treatments to remove pigmentation?

How many laser therapy for hyperpigmentation sessions? For optimal results, most patients will require 3-4 sessions (approximately 1 session per month) and will notice significant improvement after each treatment. In some circumstances, more than 4 sessions may be needed.

Why is my pigmentation getting darker?

Sun damage is the number one cause of patches of hyperpigmentation, and you can do a lot to prevent sun damage by applying SPF and staying out of direct sunlight. To treat darker skin pigmentation, using products that contain ingredients such as retinol or Niacinamide can help.

What fades hyperpigmentation the fastest?

Three types of skincare treatments fade hyperpigmentation marks fast:
  • Physical exfoliants.
  • Chemical exfoliants.
  • Brightening actives such as vitamin C, kojic acid, liquorice extract.

Does pigmentation get darker before it gets lighter?

As the skin constantly regenerates these dark spots tend to darker with time in most people. But dark spots tend to form faster and are difficult to fade away and get more deeply rooted when left untreated.

Why is my laser pigmentation not working?

The frequency between treatments

Skin pigmentation treatments usually need some time to take effect. In the case of laser treatments apart, you need to undergo a sufficient number of sessions in the initial stages of the treatment at regular intervals or frequency.

Why is my skin worse after laser treatment?

Laser resurfacing can lead to a bacterial, viral or fungal infection. The most common infection is a flare-up of the herpes virus — the virus that causes cold sores. Changes in skin color. Laser resurfacing can cause treated skin to become darker or lighter than it was before treatment.

What happens if you laser too much?

Severe Complications

These complications may include burns, scars, and permanent changes in skin color. Burns can occur if the laser is too powerful or if it is used on skin that is too dark or too tanned. Scars can occur if the skin is not properly prepared before treatment or if the laser is used incorrectly.

Can laser worsen hyperpigmentation?

Absolutely! Laser hair removal has the potential to cause hyperpigmentation. You should note that individuals with darker skin tones are more prone to experiencing this side effect.

Why is my skin darker after IPL?

So, it's actually a good thing. Natural Shedding Cycle: The darkening phase, or why pigment gets darker after IPL, is a natural process your skin goes through as it sheds pigment, revealing brighter, healthier skin. After this phase, the pigment gradually rises to the skin's surface.

Why is my melasma getting worse after laser?

With the treatment you mention, intense-pulsed light or IPL, melasma often reappears quickly. Intense-pulsed light also carries a risk of heating the surrounding skin, which is thought to worsen melasma.

Can laser treatment go wrong?

The biggest risks with laser skin resurfacing are burns, scarring and infection. Some lasers, like the carbon dioxide (CO2) laser, require an especially skilled hand.

How long does it take to heal laser burns?

In most cases, the burn will heal within 1-2 weeks. However, more severe burns can take longer to heal and may require specific aftercare, like post laser balm or medical barrier cream. It's important to monitor the burn closely and report to your practitioner if it doesn't show signs of improvement within a week.

Can laser remove pigmentation permanently?

Lasers are generally considered the best way to remove pigmentation from the face permanently, particularly in more severe cases.

How long does pigmentation take to fade after laser?

In general, it can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks for the pigmentation to fade. BBL and laser treatment are not one-off treatments. Multiple sessions may be required to achieve optimal results.

What is the recovery time for laser pigmentation removal?

There is minimal downtime with Laser Pigmentation Removal. Typically most clients have some minor redness to the treatment area for 24hrs after treatment. For the next 10 days your pigment will darken and then begin to flake off.

How many laser sessions for face pigmentation?

It usually takes between 2-8 session of laser treatments to significantly reduce pigmentation, depending on the condition.

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