Lasers for acne pigmentation: what differs depending on the color of the mark?

With lasers for acne pigmentation, the wavelength and number of sessions differ depending on whether the mark is brown or red. Brown marks are leftover melanin after inflammation, so we mainly consider pico laser toning, which reacts to pigment; red marks are dilated blood vessels showing through, so we mainly consider lasers that react to blood vessels. If both are mixed, we either split the order or plan them together.

Why does acne pigmentation remain?

When acne inflammation occurs, the pigment cells in that spot are stimulated to produce more melanin, which remains as a brown mark even after the inflammation subsides. This is called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and it tends to be darker and last longer in darker skin, in spots where acne was squeezed or picked, and in spots with heavy sun exposure.

Red marks are small blood vessels that remained dilated where the inflammation was, so they fade briefly when pressed and turn red again when released. They sometimes fade on their own over time, but can also remain for several months or longer.

How are lasers for acne pigmentation performed?

The pico laser used for brown marks delivers energy in an extremely short time to break melanin into fine particles and help the broken pigment leave the body. Rather than burning it intensely in one go, it is a toning method that uses low energy split over multiple sessions, so several sessions are needed.

At our Suwon clinic, consultations are based on PicoSure toning at 1 to 2 week intervals for 5 to 10 or more sessions, and Excel V Plus for red marks at 3 to 4 week intervals for about 3 to 5 sessions.

If new acne is still appearing, new marks will form even if you only remove the old ones, so acne treatment is carried out at the same time.

Can the color get darker after lasers for acne pigmentation?

After laser treatment for pigmented lesions, the color may look darker for a few days, and it usually fades within several days. If your skin is sensitive or you get a lot of sun after treatment, new pigmentation may actually form, so during the treatment period apply sunscreen thoroughly and avoid retinol, whitening cosmetics, and scrubs. If a scab forms, don't pick it off; let it fall off on its own.

Redness and a burning sensation usually subside soon, but if blisters form or you see patchy white areas where color has faded, please contact the clinic.

Acne Red Marks in Suwon: How Do You Tell Red Marks, Brown Marks, and Pitted Scars Apart?

See PicoSure toning treatment details

FAQ

Q. How many sessions of laser for acne pigmentation do I need?

A. Pico toning for brown marks is based on 5 to 10 or more sessions at 1 to 2 week intervals, and vascular lasers for red marks on about 3 to 5 sessions at 3 to 4 week intervals. The number of sessions varies depending on the depth of the marks and your skin tone.

Q. What if I break out while getting laser treatments?

A. New acne can leave marks in the same spot again, so acne treatment continues alongside the laser. Spots that are filled with pus or severely inflamed are avoided with the laser for a while; don't squeeze them, and we resume once they settle.

Q. When can I wash my face and wear makeup after lasers for acne pigmentation?

A. With pico toning, you can wash your face and wear makeup from the day of treatment. However, avoid scrubs and peels for about a week, apply moisturizer often since skin tends to get dry, and apply sunscreen thoroughly when going out.