Hyperpigmentation After CO2 Laser Treatment

CO2 resurfacing removes or heats selected layers of skin. As the treated area repairs itself, pigment-producing cells may become more active, leaving brown or grey-brown areas. This is more noticeable in naturally deeper skin tones and where sun reaches the face. It can appear after redness and peeling settle, so a later change does not automatically mean the procedure failed.

The appearance can overlap with ordinary dark patches on skin, but a clinician may need to distinguish post-inflammatory pigment from infection, irritation, or another skin condition.

Follow the aftercare plan from the treating clinician, keep the surface moisturised as directed, and do not pick flakes or crusts. Use shade, a hat, and the recommended broad-spectrum sunscreen once the skin is ready for it. Avoid tanning, heat exposure, scrubs, and unapproved acids or lightening products while the barrier is fragile.

Arrange a review if the colour is spreading, becoming more pronounced, or not following the recovery pattern you were given. Treatment options may include a carefully timed skin brightening treatment, a chemical peel, or prescription hydroquinone treatment; these should be selected after the skin has recovered.

Contact the treating clinic promptly for worsening pain, increasing warmth, pus, a bad smell, fever, blisters, or rapidly expanding redness. Seek urgent medical help for facial swelling that affects breathing or vision. A new dark area with marked tenderness, drainage, or delayed healing needs examination rather than self-treatment.

Ask which pigment changes are expected at your treatment depth, when to restart sunscreen or active products, and whether your skin tone changes the plan. Ask how progress will be monitored and which signs would require an earlier appointment.