What should you know about alexandrite laser for dark spots?

A dark mark is a description, not a diagnosis. Freckles, sun-related spots, pigment left after inflammation, melasma and moles behave differently, and some should not be treated cosmetically until a dermatologist has examined them.

The laser's energy is absorbed by melanin and converted into heat. That can disrupt pigment in an appropriate superficial target, but melanin in the surrounding skin also absorbs energy. Recent tanning and naturally melanin-rich skin can therefore narrow the margin between treating the mark and irritating normal skin.

Some pigment conditions are prone to returning or becoming darker after heat and inflammation. A clinician may recommend a different approach, a test area, or no laser at all after considering the pattern, depth, cause and previous response to irritation.

Arrange a skin assessment before treatment, especially for a spot that is new or changing. Describe when it appeared, whether it has grown, and any itching, bleeding or crusting. Tell the clinician about tanning, pigment changes after acne or injury, scar formation, cold sores, medicines and active skincare.

If treatment proceeds, follow instructions for gentle cleansing, moisturising and sun protection. Avoid rubbing, peeling a crust or applying unapproved acids and retinoids while the surface recovers. Take consistent photographs only if the clinic recommends them, since lighting differences can make colour comparisons misleading.

A dermatologist should examine a spot that changes shape, colour or size, develops an irregular border, repeatedly bleeds, or forms a sore that does not heal; do not cover such a change with cosmetic laser treatment. After a procedure, contact the clinic for blistering, severe or increasing pain, spreading redness, discharge, an open wound, or marked darkening or lightening.

Ask what the dark spot is thought to be, whether examination or another diagnostic step is needed, and why alexandrite is suitable for that pigment depth. Clarify the chance of rebound darkening for your skin, the purpose of any test area, what surface change is expected, and how recurrence would be managed.