A female asked:
Does laser skin resurfacing cause skin discoloration on black skin? african-american woman. my concerns are about laser skin resurfacing leading to skin discoloration. if this is the case, how long does it take for normal skin pigmentation to be restored?
3 doctor answers • 5 doctors weighed in

Dr. James Sewardanswered
Dermatology 24 years experience
Hyperpigmentation : Hyperpigmentation is very common in dark skin. It can occur after a rash, acne, a chemical peel, or laser resurfacing. It depends a lot on how aggressive the procedure is, as well. I would carefully discuss with your dermatologist prior to a procedure. Perhaps a test area prior to scheduling the full treatment would be prudent to see if you tend to develop hyperpigmentation. I hope that helps!
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Dr. Barry Cohenanswered
36 years experience
We: Rarely use laser resurfacing in people of color due to risk of scars and pigment changes.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
4.9k viewsReviewed >2 years ago

Dr. Thomas Fialaanswered
Plastic Surgery 35 years experience
Dark skin: Has more limited treatment options, due to pigmentary changes with traditional ablative methods. So, you could use a non-ablative laser, or rf - treatment methods that are "colorblind".
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
4.9k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Last updated Jan 5, 2019
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