Fraxel and hyperpigmentation.

Dr. Irwin
April 16, 2014
I had a Fraxel 1500 procedure done 2 months ago and It left hyperpigmantation on my face. I called the place & they advise I get an IPL done to remove it. I Do NOT want another laser touching my face. Is there a prescription cream you can recommend? I wish I never got the Fraxel! Please advise. Thank you! Alexandra

My heart goes out to you.  Fraxel, while a wonderful procedure done when done well,  can cause pigment problems (usually temporary) sometimes.  These problems usually occur when:

  1. The patient has melasma and that wasn’t caught and pretreated prior to the laser
  2. The laser is done during a  sunny period and the patient doesn’t stay absolutely out of the light/sun for at least 4-6 weeks and use the recommended sunscreen.
  3. The laser is done on a darker skin type when too much sun/light is around – from April-early October or too much time in the sun or just outdoors;
  4. Skin irritation with hyperpigmentation occurs with the post Fraxel products.

Please see your dermatologist for information on the presciptions available to help you and also correct use of sunscreens and other options!!  I agree that the IPL is not a good option right now unless an laser expert dermatologist recommended it.

More on pigment problems and what to do. 

Dr. I

Dr. Brandith Irwin, MD

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