An increase in pigmentation (hyper-pigmentation) after laser treatment is commonly seen in some skin types. This is a temporary condition and will fade, but may take some weeks to months in some cases.

Loss of pigmentation on lighter coloured skin after treatment is usually temporary. However, in a small number of patients this may be a permanent lightening of skin in the treated area. This is a more likely risk in patients where repeated high power treatments were necessary.

Your doctor will assess the risk of pigmentation or scarring before your laser treatment. For those people at higher risk of complications, some precautionary measures may be recommended either before or after the laser treatment.