I have a hyperpigmented upper lip due to excessive threading/plucking. I have type IV fitzpatrick skin. My upper lip has a very dark shadow - it looks like a 5 o’clock shadow, but it is the skin that is dark. I have stopped plucking for 7 months. I tried electrolysis but the first session left me with scars. My dermatologist confirmed I have dermal hyperpigmentation; it is quite deep in the dermis layer of skin. I am 27 years old and was diagnosed with PCOS 2 years ago.
I have a specialist appointment next week to get help to control my high levels of testosterone. I am skinny so weight loss will not help.
Since it is dermal hyperpigmentation and it is deep, I am worried that the laser will target the dark melanin in my dermal skin instead of the hair. I am not sure how deep the laser can target. The hair is a bit darker than the skin and is very thick.
I posted a similar question on the RealSelf website and all dermatologists/plastic surgeons recommended LHR using the diode laser or nd YAG laser depending on the darkness of the skin. My research shows that the nd YAG laser is the safest for darker skin.
Will LHR be safe in this case? I read that you cannot have laser when you have a tan. Is it the same case with post inflammatory hyperpigmentation?
Please help. I originally thought the dark skin was due to melasma; I would have tried to correct this as soon as it started if I had known it was due to hair removal. I am desparate to get rid of the hair. The hair and hyperpigmentation has taken over my life. My dermatologist said that removing the hair long term will allow my skin to eventually heal and return to its normal color.
Looking forward to hearing from experiences and from technicians if possible.
Thank you.