What should you know about laser treatment for uneven skin tone?

Uneven tone may involve brown patches, isolated spots, redness, or a mixture of changes. Possible causes include Melasma, Sun-Damaged Skin, Sun Spots, and Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation after acne, injury, or irritation. A clinician considers the pattern, duration, recent inflammation, medicines, hormonal factors, and sun exposure before selecting a device.

Laser or intense pulsed light can deliver energy to selected colour in the skin. The aim and settings differ for pigment and redness. Some people may instead be offered Chemical Peel or Skin Brightening Treatment, while IPL Photofacial is another light-based option. Treatment can temporarily irritate the skin and may worsen or alter pigmentation in some skin types.

Tell the clinician about tanning, pregnancy, melasma, recent rashes, cold sores, medicines, and previous pigment changes after procedures. Avoid tanning and follow instructions about creams or active skincare before treatment. A small test area may be discussed when pigment response is a concern.

After treatment, use gentle skincare and protect the area from sunlight with shade, clothing, and the sunscreen recommended for you. Do not pick peeling skin or use strong exfoliants until the barrier has recovered. Attend review if the colour change is not settling as expected.

Contact the clinic for increasing pain, marked swelling, blistering, spreading redness, or crusting that does not improve. Seek assessment for a new or changing dark spot, spontaneous bleeding, or a patch that is unlike the surrounding treatment area.

Ask what type of colour change is being treated, why a particular laser or light device is suitable, how your skin tone affects settings, whether another option is safer, and what sun protection is needed between sessions.