How to fade dark marks on the face caused by post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation after spot treatment

Sep 04, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
In general, dark marks appearing all over the face after spot treatment are usually due to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation caused by pigmentary rebound. For mild cases, improvement can be achieved through enhanced sun protection and proper skincare; medications may also be used as directed by a physician. For more severe cases, effective treatments include chemical peels, photorejuvenation, and fractional laser therapy. It is recommended to consult a professional doctor for personalized advice.

In general, dark marks appearing all over the face after spot treatment are usually due to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. This may be caused by factors such as thermal injury from laser treatment, chemical irritation, inflammatory reactions, improper postoperative care, or individual differences. Mild cases can often be improved with enhanced sun protection and skincare routines, or through medications prescribed by a doctor. More severe cases can be effectively treated with procedures such as chemical peels, photorejuvenation (IPL), or fractional laser therapy. It is recommended to consult a professional physician for advice.

Laser-induced thermal injury occurs when the skin sustains heat damage during treatment, stimulating melanin production and resulting in widespread dark marks. This can be managed under medical guidance with oral or topical medications such as vitamin E cream or hydroquinone cream. Chemical irritation refers to stimulation of the skin by certain chemicals during spot removal, which activates melanocytes. This condition can be treated with fractional laser therapy. Inflammatory reactions may arise when spots trigger skin inflammation, promoting melanin production and deposition. These can be managed with anti-inflammatory ointments as directed by a physician, such as erythromycin ointment or mupirocin ointment. Improper postoperative care—such as inadequate sun protection or moisturization—can lead to UV-induced pigmentation and dark facial marks. This can be addressed through enhanced sun protection and treatments like chemical peels. Individual variation refers to the tendency of individuals with darker skin tones to develop hyperpigmentation more easily. Treatments such as chemical peels, photorejuvenation, and fractional laser therapy are commonly used in these cases.

Introduction to treatments for removing dark marks:

Procedure Name

Chemical Peel

Photorejuvenation (IPL)

Fractional Laser

Reference Image

Procedure Overview

Uses alpha-hydroxy acids to exfoliate the stratum corneum, accelerate shedding of aged skin cells, and break down melanin

Utilizes broad-spectrum pulsed light to target and destroy melanin particles in the skin

Uses laser energy to disrupt melanin-containing tissue

Advantages

1. Comprehensive effects
2. Noticeable results

1. Safe and quick
2. Noticeable results

1. Noticeable results
2. Comprehensive skin improvement

Potential Risks

1. Risk of infection
2. Possible skin sensitivity or allergic reaction

1. Risk of skin burns
2. Possible post-treatment pigmentation

Skin burns

Improvement Time

2–4 weeks

1–2 weeks

1–2 weeks

Duration of Results 6–12 months 6–12 months 1–3 years
Reference Price 2,000–3,000 RMB per session 3,000–6,000 RMB per session 2,000–5,000 RMB per session

It is recommended to visit a hospital and consult a dermatologist. Under professional guidance, choose the most suitable treatment based on your individual skin condition.