Laser for Hypopigmentation

Hypopigmentation means an area has less visible pigment than the surrounding skin. It can follow inflammation or injury, occur with conditions such as atopic dermatitis, or accompany a superficial fungal problem such as tinea versicolor. A clinician may examine the border, surface, scale, distribution, and history before considering light-based treatment.

Excimer laser therapy delivers concentrated ultraviolet light to selected patches. It is not suitable for every light mark, and the treatment plan depends on diagnosis, location, skin tone, stability, and the risk of irritation or uneven colour.

Do not self-treat an unexplained pale patch with a laser. Arrange an assessment, especially if it is spreading, scaly, itchy, inflamed, or appearing in several new areas. Bring details of recent rashes, injuries, products, medicines, and sun exposure. Once treatment is chosen, protect surrounding skin as instructed and follow the schedule carefully.

For inflammatory causes, topical calcineurin inhibitors or other medical treatment may be discussed instead of, or before, an energy procedure. Treating the cause can allow colour to become more even over time.

Seek assessment for a rapidly enlarging patch, bleeding or ulceration, marked pain, persistent inflammation, or a lesion with a changing border. After treatment, report blistering, severe burning, worsening redness, or a new persistent colour change.

Ask what is causing the colour difference, whether the patch is stable enough for treatment, how surrounding skin will be protected, what improvement would look like, and when a biopsy or other test is needed.