Journal of Asia Pacific Aesthetic Sciences

Abstract: Laser Facials or laser toning has become increasingly popular in Asia. Q-switched Nd:YAG laser is the most commonly used laser for skin rejuvenation because of its deeper penetrating properties and safety in pigmented skin. However, as with any laser procedure, laser toning is associated with adverse effects. Most dreaded complications is laser toning induced hypopigmentation as they generally do not respond well to treatment (Wong et al., 2015). From our clinical experience using lower fluence (0.8-2 j/cm2), large spot size (6-10mm), sufficient treatment intervals (3-4 weeks) and less tissue response can prevent such complications. We report a case of laser-induced hypopigmentation in an Indian patient who developed hypopigmentation after laser toning despite using fluence less than 1 J/cm2, 6mm spot size and 3 weeks treatment intervals. Surprisingly hypopigmentation recovered with steroid cream within few days.