Hair Removal

Does Laser Hair Removal Help with Hyperpigmentation?

Laser Hair Removal & Hyperpigmentation: What You Need To Know

Laser hair removal is widely known for reducing unwanted hair, but did you know it may also improve the appearance of hyperpigmentation? In certain cases, laser hair removal can help lighten dark spots and even out skin tone—but there’s more to the story. While laser treatments can reduce hyperpigmentation, they can also cause it under certain conditions. Let’s explore both sides.

What is Hyperpigmentation?

Hyperpigmentation happens when certain areas of your skin become darker than the surrounding skin due to an overproduction of melanin—the pigment responsible for your skin color.

Some common causes include:

  • Sun Exposure: UV rays stimulate melanin production, which can lead to sunspots or age spots.

  • Hormonal Changes: Pregnancy, menopause, or medications like birth control can trigger melasma—gray or brown patches on the face.

  • Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH): Dark spots that appear after skin inflammation or injury, like acne, bug bites, or burns.

How Can Laser Hair Removal Help Lighten Hyperpigmentation?

Laser hair removal works by directing concentrated light energy into the pigment (melanin) in your hair follicles. In the process, this energy can also heat and break up excess melanin in the skin, which may help lighten hyperpigmented spots over time.

Some people notice a more even skin tone after several sessions, especially when laser hair removal reduces repeated irritation from shaving or waxing, which can contribute to discoloration.

Why Laser Hair Removal Is Great for Hyperpigmentation (In Some Cases)

Here’s why laser hair removal might be beneficial for certain types of hyperpigmentation:

  • Non-invasive: No cutting, no downtime—just a few quick sessions.

  • Long-term results: After multiple treatments, many people see significant permanent hair reduction, which means less friction and inflammation from other methods.

  • Precision: Lasers target specific areas, making it easier to treat small, localized patches of hyperpigmentation.

That said, results vary depending on your skin type, laser technology used, and the cause of your hyperpigmentation.

Can Laser Hair Removal Cause Hyperpigmentation?

Yes—it’s possible. Laser hair removal can trigger hyperpigmentation, particularly in those with deeper skin tones or sensitive skin, or when the wrong laser settings are used. Two types of pigment changes can occur:

  • Hyperpigmentation: Darkening of the skin post-treatment, usually temporary but still frustrating.

  • Hypopigmentation: Light patches where pigment is lost.

Risk factors that increase your chances of developing hyperpigmentation from laser hair removal include:

  • Skin Tone: Darker skin tones are more reactive to laser energy and may require gentler, specialized lasers like Nd:YAG.

  • Sun Exposure: Getting treated with a recent tan or sunburn increases your risk.

  • Improper Settings or Technique: Using the wrong laser type or setting for your skin can lead to burns and pigment changes.

  • Poor Aftercare: Skipping sunscreen or using harsh skincare products after treatment can exacerbate dark spots.

Is Laser Hair Removal Better For Hyperpigmentation Than Other Hair Removal Methods?

Generally, yes—but with important caveats. Traditional methods like shaving, waxing, or threading can irritate the skin, leading to or worsening post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, especially with repeated use.

Laser hair removal, by reducing the need for constant hair removal, may lower your risk of irritation and related dark spots in the long run. However, it’s important to remember that laser treatments can also cause hyperpigmentation if not performed correctly or if you don’t follow proper aftercare.

If you’re concerned about pigmentation changes, make sure to consult a licensed professional like us experienced with your skin type—and always avoid laser treatments over freshly tanned skin.

Factors That Influence Whether Laser Hair Removal Will Help or Harm Hyperpigmentation

Several things can determine whether laser hair removal will help fade or unfortunately trigger hyperpigmentation:

  • Skin Tone & Type: Fitzpatrick Skin Types IV–VI are more prone to pigmentation issues. You’ll need a provider who understands how to safely treat melanin-rich skin (which we do!).

  • Type of Laser: Devices like the Nd:YAG laser that we use are better suited for darker skin tones because they bypass the surface pigment.

  • Cause of Hyperpigmentation: If it’s from hair removal irritation (like waxing or tweezing), laser hair removal may actually improve it. If it’s from sun damage or melasma, results may vary.

  • Timing: Laser treatments should be done when your skin is free from recent sun exposure or active inflammation.

  • Aftercare: Skipping sunscreen, exfoliating too early, or picking at your skin can cause or worsen pigmentation issues.

How to Prevent and Manage Hyperpigmentation

Whether you’re treating existing dark spots or trying to prevent new ones, here are a few golden rules:

  • Wear Sunscreen: SPF 30 or higher—every single day.

  • Avoid Sun Before and After Treatment: Sun exposure increases your risk of pigment changes.

  • Choose the Right Provider: Go to a licensed practitioner experienced in treating your specific skin tone, like the clinicians at LaserAway.

  • Be Gentle: Avoid harsh scrubs, exfoliants, or products with alcohol while your skin heals.

  • Hydrate: Moisturize to support healing and reduce irritation.

You can also complement your laser treatments with brightening skincare ingredients like vitamin C, retinol, niacinamide, or hydroquinone (with your provider’s approval).

Achieve Radiant Skin with Laser Hair Removal at LaserAway

Laser hair removal can be a great option for reducing unwanted hair and potentially improving hyperpigmentation—especially if you’re prone to dark spots from shaving, waxing, or plucking. But it’s important to go into it with realistic expectations. While some people see brighter, clearer skin, others may experience temporary pigment changes.

To ensure the best results, always consult a trained professional who understands your unique skin needs and can tailor the treatment accordingly.

Ready to explore laser hair removal safely? Book a consultation with LaserAway and get one step closer to clearer, smoother skin—without the fuzz.

References

  1. “Comparing Traditional and in Motion Nd:YAG Laser in Hair Removal: A Prospective Study,” Medicina, September 2, 2022.

“Integrative and Mechanistic Approach to the Hair Growth Cycle and Hair Loss,” Journal of Clinical Medicine, February 2023.