Laser for Pigmentation: What to Expect and How to Prepare

Laser for Pigmentation: What to Expect and How to Prepare

Thinking about laser treatment for dark spots, melasma, or uneven skin tone? Here’s what you need to know before, during, and after the session.

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Introduction:

Pigmentation is one of the top concerns we see at Dr. Rizwan’s Skin, Cosmetic & Laser Clinic.

Whether it’s sun damage, melasma, acne marks, or age spots—these patches can affect your confidence.

And while creams can help, laser treatment is often the game-changer for deeper or stubborn pigmentation.

But before you decide, let’s break down what laser pigmentation treatment involves—and how you should prepare.

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🔍 What Is Laser for Pigmentation?

Laser treatment uses a focused beam of light to break down pigment clusters in your skin.

The broken pigment is then cleared naturally by your body over the next few weeks.

At our clinic, we use advanced Q-Switched ND:YAG laser technology—safe, effective, and suitable for Indian skin types.

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✅ Conditions That Can Be Treated:

• Melasma

• Freckles

• Sunspots

• PIH (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation)

• Age spots

• Uneven skin tone

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🕒 What to Expect Before the Treatment:

1. Skin Assessment:

We examine your pigmentation type, skin tone, and medical history.

Not every pigmentation responds the same way—customization is key.

2. No Active Tanning:

Avoid sun exposure and tanning for at least 1–2 weeks before the session.

3. Pause Strong Actives:

We may ask you to stop products like retinol, AHA/BHA, or exfoliants 3–5 days before.

4. Do a Patch Test:

Especially if it’s your first time or sensitive skin, we may test a small area.

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💥 What Happens During the Session:

• Your skin is cleaned.

• You’ll wear protective eyewear.

• The laser is applied to the pigmented areas—it feels like mild rubber band snaps or tingling.

• The session takes 15–30 minutes, depending on the area.

There’s no need for anesthesia. Most people find it very tolerable.

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⏱ What Happens After?

1. Mild Redness or Warmth:

This usually fades in a few hours. In some cases, it may take a day or two.

2. Pigment May Look Darker:

Don’t worry—this is normal. The pigment rises to the surface and flakes off over a week.

3. No Scrubbing or Picking:

Let your skin heal naturally. Use only mild cleansers and moisturizers.

4. Daily Sunscreen is a Must:

We can’t stress this enough—strict sun protection prevents the pigment from returning.

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🔁 How Many Sessions Do You Need?

Most patients need 3–6 sessions spaced 3–4 weeks apart.

Results build up gradually—you’ll start noticing improvement after 2–3 sessions.

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⚠️ Who Should Avoid Laser for Pigmentation?

• Pregnant or breastfeeding women

• People with active herpes or infections on the face

• Those with very recent tanning or sunburn

• Certain medical conditions (we’ll discuss this in consultation)

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🧴 Post-Treatment Skincare:

We usually prescribe:

• A gentle cleanser

• Healing moisturizers

• Broad-spectrum sunscreen

• In some cases, mild lightening creams between sessions

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🗨 Final Thoughts from Dr. Rizwan:

“Laser for pigmentation isn’t magic—it’s science. With the right technology and skin preparation, it can safely and significantly reduce pigmentation. But results depend on consistency, sun protection, and post-care.”

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Thinking of treating your pigmentation the right way?

Visit Dr. Rizwan’s Skin, Cosmetic & Laser Clinic, Shahjahanpur

We’ll guide you with honest advice, safe technology, and clear expectations.