How long does picosecond laser treatment take to work for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation?

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is colour left behind after irritation, acne, eczema, injury, or another inflammatory event. If that trigger is still active, new marks can appear while older pigment is fading. Laser may fragment pigment, but the skin still needs time to clear it and settle.

The depth of the mark, its location, your skin tone, sun exposure, and the treatment settings all influence the pace. A dermatologist may recommend treating the underlying condition first and then reviewing the colour under consistent lighting.

Use the treatment aftercare provided by your clinician, protect the area from sunlight, and avoid picking or introducing irritating acids, scrubs, or bleaching products unless prescribed. Report any flare of acne, dermatitis, or another rash because ongoing inflammation can add pigment.

Ask for prompt review if pain, redness, swelling, blistering, crusting, or discharge is worsening instead of settling. New pale patches or rapidly spreading darkening also deserve assessment, particularly after treatment on sensitive skin.

Ask what caused the mark, whether that cause is controlled, when improvement should be photographed, what aftercare is suitable for your skin tone, and how the plan will change if pigment returns.