How long does picosecond laser treatment take to work for exogenous ochronosis?

Exogenous ochronosis can place blue-grey or brown pigment deeper in the skin than an ordinary surface mark. The laser delivers very short pulses that fragment pigment, after which the body clears the particles over time. Early swelling, redness, temporary darkening, or lightening can make the area look different before it settles.

The response depends on pigment depth, how long the ochronosis has been present, the treatment settings, and your tendency to develop post-inflammatory colour change. A clinician may compare photographs and examine the skin between visits rather than judging the result immediately after treatment.

Attend the review schedule set by your dermatologist and do not add another pigment treatment without approval. Use the prescribed aftercare, protect the treated area from sunlight, and avoid picking, scrubbing, or irritating products while the skin recovers. Tell the clinic about any previous hydroquinone use, active rash, or new darkening.

Contact your treatment clinic promptly for worsening pain, spreading redness, marked swelling, pus, blistering, or a fever. Around the eyes, seek urgent assessment for eye pain, vision change, or swelling that interferes with opening the eye.

Ask how deep the pigment appears, what interval is planned between sessions, which changes are expected during healing, and how your clinician will decide whether to continue, pause, or change the treatment plan.