post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation

Hyperpigmentation is a skin condition caused by the excessive production of Melanin. Melanin is responsible for determining skin pigmentation and hair color. When the body produces too much melanin, dark brown spots, and discoloration of the skin occur. There are various factors that can trigger melanin production. These factors include excessive sun exposure, pregnancy, or laser treatments.

Post laser Hyperpigmentation

The laser treatments are generally safe. However, the use of the wrong laser machine on an unsuitable skin type may trigger excessive Melanin production. An increase in Melanin may lead to hyperpigmentation.

Dark patches and lesions may appear on your skin in post-laser hyperpigmentation. The lesions and dark patches take longer to disappear on their own.

If you have developed this skin condition after laser treatment, the good news is that there are multiple treatment options to cure the problem.

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH)

Post Inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) can be caused by an injury to the skin due to sunburn, surgery, or Laser treatment. PIH may affect the skin surface ( Epidermis), and the deeper layer of the Skin (Dermis).

It is common in people with dark skin tones. PIH may lead to discoloration of the skin which affects your attractive looks. Numerous non-ablative treatments are available at Laser Skin Care Clinic Dubai to treat the problem of PIH.

Causes of Hyperpigmentation

Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH) is caused by excessive melanin production. When damage is caused to the skin, the skin cells respond by producing excessive Melanin. This excessive production of Melanin causes PIH.

There are several factors that trigger melanin production, these factors include:

  • Laser Treatments
  • Sun Exposure
  • Hormonal Changes
  • Skin Injuries
  • Aging

Ethnicities prone to hyperpigmentation

People with darker skin tones are more prone to this skin condition. Dark skin already has excessive melanin, and a triggering effect may easily increase melanin production. This may lead to PIH.

  • African Americans, Carribeans, and South Americans are more prone to PIH.
  • People with these ethnicities need to be more careful during laser treatments.
  • They should also apply sunscreen to protect their skin from sun damage.
  • On the Fitzpatrick scale, skin types III to VI are prone to PIH.

Can laser treat Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH)?

Age spots and Sun damage can be treated with laser treatments, however, some cases of Melasma and PIH are not treated through laser.

It is recommended that you consult an expert dermatologist before choosing a treatment.

We have certified dermatologists at Laser Skin Care Clinic. The doctors have years of experience in treating this skin condition.

Our dermatologists are board-certified and results-driven to make your experience worth it.

Treatment options for Post-Laser Hyperpigmentation?

Laser treatments can cause Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). If you have developed PIH, there are numerous treatment options that can help you out.

Two of the most common treatments are:

  • Chemical peels.
  • Topical therapies

Chemical peels

Chemical peels are a classical treatment for PIH. It uses chemicals of different strengths to treat skin conditions. Chemicals with strong power are avoided during the treatment because they may increase the problem.

Some of the Peels that can be used are

Topical Therapies for Hyperpigmentation

Topical therapies are the first response to PIH. Topical creams are used in these therapies to reduce the effect and improve skin appearance.

Some of the topical therapies to treat the skin include:

  • Vitamin C
  • Cosmelan
  • Mesopeels
  • Retinoids
  • Extracts of orchid, Alone vera, and grape seed.

Conclusion

Laser treatments can cause Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) which doesn’t look good on the skin. Laser treatments make your skin sensitive and excessive exposure to the sun right after the treatment may also be a cause of this skin condition.
It is important to consult an expert dermatologist to diagnose the problem and get it treated. Treatment options like chemical peels and topical therapies can help you out if you have developed (PIH) after a laser treatment.