What is the cause of brown spots and skin darkening after laser? 👉👉

Laser hair removal is a popular beauty method that uses laser technology to remove excess hair from different parts of the face and body. While this method is safe and effective, In some cases, it may lead to spots and black spots on the skin. These black dots are also known as hyperpigmentation.
In people with darker skin color, these spots are more likely to appear after laser treatment. In this series of scientific articles on skin care from vaghtemod magazine, We have explained the cause of brown skin spots after laser hair removal and its treatment methods.

How does laser hair removal work?

Laser hair removal is a medical procedure that uses a focused beam of light to remove excess hair from specific areas such as the legs, back, armpits, chin, and bikini line. Lasers work by detecting the contrast between excess hair, thickness and skin tone. The laser emits light that is absorbed by a pigment called melanin in the hair. This light energy is converted into heat and the follicles responsible for hair growth are destroyed. In the previous articles, we fully explained the side effects of laser hair removal.

The laser device works best when there is a contrast between the hair and the skin, because the pigment in the hair follicle absorbs light better. It is ideal if the patient has dark hair and lighter skin. Laser hair removal is not suitable for people who have tattoos or have white, blonde or red hair.

Read more: Know 12 benefits of laser hair removal!

What is the cause of skin discoloration and discoloration after laser?

In the articles related to women’s beauty and men’s beauty, we have fully explained the side effects of laser hair removal. Skin discoloration is a side effect of laser hair removal that less than 5% of patients experience. One of the cases of skin color change; Hyperpigmentation refers to darkening of the skin.

Hyperpigmentation is a temporary or permanent condition, where the skin regularly darkens due to increased melanin production. This complication may occur for the following reasons:

• Hormonal fluctuations One of the reasons for darkening of the skin is after laser.
• Underlying medical conditions
• Inflammation or acne Another reason for the appearance of brown spots on the skin after laser hair removal is.
• skin damage
• Prolonged exposure to the sun
• Not using sunscreen With proper spf
• Use of medications such as birth control pills

With laser therapy, hyperpigmentation and skin spots are revealed when the skin responds to the heat of the laser. The skin around the hair follicle can be irritated and develop red, acne-like bumps that turn black over time. This rare condition is called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation disorder and usually occurs in the armpits, legs and bikini area. To avoid discoloration and hyperpigmentation, it is important to take care of yourself before and after laser treatment.

How to prevent spots and skin darkening after laser hair removal?

Make sure you choose the safest laser with the wavelength specific to your skin type. For example, if you have olive or darker skin, you should be treated with ND Yag wavelengths. At least 4 to 6 weeks before laser treatment, avoid exposure to sunlight and use appropriate sunscreen.

Report any changes in your medical condition to your doctor, Especially if you are taking new medications; So that they can rule out contraindications. Effective laser hair removal should be available to everyone, but to ensure that you do not experience such side effects, your doctor should advise you and remind you of the care before and after laser hair removal.

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

When treating brown spots or hyperpigmentation or melasma, the skin in the treated area may darken. This is especially the case when there is brown pigment in the layers of the skin.
These brown spots fade after 7 to 14 days. If the pigment is deep in the skin, especially in the case of melasma, a series of treatments are needed before you notice a reduction in the brown spots. Although you may not be able to completely remove the stains, they can be reduced.

Learn more: What is dehydrated skin? Symptoms, causes and treatment methods of dehydrated skin.

Care tips after laser hair removal

After a laser hair removal session, some side effects are normal. You may feel warmth, very mild redness similar to a sunburn in the treated area. These side effects disappear within 24 to 48 hours after each session. Side effects are more obvious after the first few sessions when the hair is usually thick.

During the treatment, the hair becomes finer and its side effects are reduced. It is important to avoid exposure to sunlight. And if you go out, use sunscreen. Wear loose and cotton clothes to allow the skin to breathe. Avoid exercising for a few days and resume your daily activities. Wear sunglasses and brimmed hats on hot summer days.

The method of treating spots and darkening of the skin after laser hair removal

If your skin is dark after laser hair removal, don’t worry. Most types of skin spots, darkening and types of hyperpigmentation are temporary and generally disappear one to two months after laser sessions.
The dermatologist can help correct and treat the skin condition by prescribing lightening creams such as retinoid, skin scrubs, microdermabrasion or light chemical peeling.