Why is My Pigmentation Darker After Laser Treatment?

If you've undergone laser treatment for pigmentation and noticed that the treated areas appear darker, you may feel concerned or puzzled. However, this reaction is not uncommon and is usually a normal part of the healing process.

Understanding how laser treatment affects pigmentation and what changes you can expect post-treatment will help ease your worries and guide you through a smooth recovery.

How laser treatment works on pigmentation

Lasers are commonly used to treat pigmentation such as melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Laser treatment for pigmentation targets melanin, the pigment that gives colour to dark spots and uneven skin tone.

It transmits a specific wavelength of light that is absorbed by the melanin in the skin, disintegrating the pigmented cells into smaller particles. Laser treatment stimulates the skin's natural healing process while the body naturally eliminates these pigmented particles over time.

What to expect during the healing process

Initial darkening

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.

The treated area may also appear red and slightly swollen during this initial phase. These symptoms are typically mild and should begin to subside within a few days.

Gradual Lightening

As your skin continues to heal, the darkened pigmentation will gradually lighten. The pigmented cells will be eliminated, and the treated area will become lighter and even tone.

You may start to see improvements in the appearance of your pigmentation within a few weeks of treatment, with continued lightening over the next few months. You may need multiple sessions to achieve optimal results, especially for more stubborn or deeper pigmentation.

Reasons for darkening

Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)

After laser treatment, the skin may darken due to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). This occurs when the skin responds to the laser's energy by producing excess melanin during the healing process. The darkened areas should gradually fade as the skin regenerates.

Latent Melasma

Latent melasma refers to melasma that isn’t immediately visible until it’s triggered. This condition involves dark patches caused by hormonal changes or sun exposure, and while it may not be obvious at first, laser treatment can stimulate its underlying presence, causing the pigmentation to surface. This darkening is more persistent and may require treatment to manage.

What to do when facing delayed darkening?

particularly if you're dealing with conditions like postinflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) or melasma.

For those with PIH or melasma, it's crucial to closely monitor your skin's response after each treatment session. Delayed darkening is not uncommon, but managing it properly is essential to achieving the desired outcome. Your doctor may recommend specific topical medications, such as hydroquinone or retinoids, to help reduce the appearance of the darkened areas and control further pigmentation.

In addition to medication, targeted treatments, including additional laser sessions, chemical peels, or microneedling, may be required to address stubborn pigmentation. Always follow your doctor’s guidance on managing delayed darkening, as proper care will promote smoother and more even skin tone over time.

Tips for smooth recovery

To ensure a smooth recovery and to help the treated area heal properly, follow these tips:

• Avoid sun exposure: Shield your skin from UV rays by wearing broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF30 or more, and reapply it every two hours. Sun exposure can cause further darkening of the treated area and hinder the healing process.
• Keep the area moisturised: Use a gentle, hydrating moisturiser to keep the treated area moisturised. Moisturising can help soothe any irritation and prevent the skin from becoming dry and flaky.
• Avoid picking or scratching: Resist the urge to pick or scratch the treated skin, as this can cause scarring and interfere with healing.
• Follow post-treatment instructions: Your practitioner will provide specific post-treatment care instructions. Adhere to these carefully to ensure the best possible results and minimise any risk of complications.
• Be patient: Healing takes time, so you need to be patient as your skin goes through the recovery process. The initial darkening will gradually fade, revealing brighter skin underneath.

Pigmentation removal in Singapore

Darkening after pigmentation treatment is a normal and expected part of healing. While it may seem concerning initially, it usually isn't a cause for worry. As your skin heals, this temporary darkening gradually diminishes, revealing a more even complexion. However if you notice any abnormal darkening or worrying signs of skin damage, you should share your experiences with your doctor so they can adjust your treatment as necessary. 

At 1Aesthetics, we understand that getting rid of pigmentation requires patience and expertise. Our laser pigmentation removal treatments are designed to reduce the look of hyperpigmentation, melasma, and other forms of pigmentation. We provide effective and safe treatments tailored to your specific skin type and pigmentation concerns, guiding you through every step of the process. 

If you are considering pigmentation removal in Singapore, we invite you to book a consultation with us today.