Laser Treatments for Hyperpigmentation: All You Need To Know

Hyperpigmentation—those persistent dark patches and uneven areas of skin tone—is frustrating and difficult to treat. Whether caused by sun exposure, hormones, acne, or skin trauma, these discolorations can make even the healthiest skin appear dull or aged. At CLEO Skin + Laser, we offer advanced, science-backed solutions to safely and effectively restore clarity and glow to your complexion—no matter your skin type or tone.

What Is Hyperpigmentation?

Hyperpigmentation is a common skin condition where certain areas of the skin become darker than the surrounding skin. This happens when excess melanin, the pigment that gives our skin its color, forms deposits in the skin. There are several types of hyperpigmentation:

• Melasma: Often hormonally driven and commonly seen during pregnancy or from birth control use.
• Sun Spots (Solar Lentigines): Caused by prolonged sun exposure, especially on the face, chest, and hands.
• Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH): Dark spots left behind after acne breakouts, eczema, or skin injury.
• Freckles and Age Spots: Typically benign but more noticeable with sun exposure or age.

These spots can develop in anyone but are particularly common—and more challenging to treat—in individuals with medium to deep skin tones due to naturally higher levels of melanin.

Can Hyperpigmentation be addressed with topical products?

Topical treatments for hyperpigmentation—such as creams, gels, and serums—are widely marketed and used to help lighten dark spots and even out skin tone. While they can be beneficial for mild cases, they do come with significant limitations that are important to consider. One of the primary drawbacks is the slow pace of results. It often takes years of consistent use before any visible improvement becomes noticeable. This can be discouraging for those seeking quicker results. Additionally, some of these products contain potent ingredients like hydroquinone or corticosteroids, which, although effective, can lead to side effects such as skin irritation, dryness, or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. The overall effectiveness of topical treatments is limited, particularly in more severe cases of hyperpigmentation or when used on deeper skin tones, where pigmentation issues may be more complex.

Can Lasers Address Hyperpigmentation?

Lasers have become one of the most effective tools for treating hyperpigmentation, particularly when topical treatments alone aren’t delivering desired results. Technologies like Pico Lasers and Nd:YAG are commonly used to target excess melanin in the skin with precision. These lasers work by delivering energy into the deeper layers of the skin, breaking down pigment without harming surrounding tissue. Nd:YAG lasers are often preferred for treating darker skin tones due to their deeper penetration and lower risk of causing additional pigmentation issues. Pico lasers, on the other hand, use ultra-short pulses to shatter pigment into tiny particles that the body can naturally eliminate, and they’re known for treating even stubborn discoloration with minimal downtime. Both approaches are versatile and can be used to treat various types of hyperpigmentation, including melasma, sun spots, and post-inflammatory marks. Results are typically gradual over a series of treatments, and because lasers also stimulate collagen production, patients often experience overall improvements in skin tone and texture.

Not All Laser Treatments Are Created Equal

Not all lasers are created equal, and not all providers understand how to treat hyperpigmentation, especially in melanin-rich skin safely. At CLEO, we specialize in treating sensitive skin and skin of color with the utmost care and precision. Under the right care, we believe that hyperpigmentation doesn't have to be permanent. With the right technology, expertise, and care, you can reclaim a more radiant, even complexion. At CLEO Skin + Laser, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Book your Free Consultation today to visit one of our Minneapolis based studios (Edina + Maple Grove) or give us a call at (952) 666-1105 to learn more.