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Related Concept Videos

Changes in Skin Color: Clinical Perspectives01:14

Changes in Skin Color: Clinical Perspectives

The first thing a clinician sees is the skin, so the examination of the skin should be part of any thorough physical examination. Most skin disorders are relatively benign, but a few, including melanomas, can be fatal if untreated. A couple of the more noticeable disorders, albinism and vitiligo, affect the appearance of the skin and its accessory organs.
Albinism
Albinism is a genetic disorder that affects (completely or partially) the coloring of skin, hair, and eyes. The defect is primarily...
Acne Infection01:27

Acne Infection

Acne is a multifactorial skin condition primarily affecting adolescents and young adults, with a global prevalence estimated to exceed 75% in this demographic. The condition is characterized by the formation of comedones (blackheads and whiteheads), papules, pustules, nodules, and, in severe cases, cysts, particularly in areas rich in sebaceous glands such as the face, neck, chest, and back. The pathogenesis involves increased sebum production, follicular hyperkeratinization, colonization by...
Pigmentation01:19

Pigmentation

The color of the skin is influenced by a number of pigments, including melanin, carotene, and hemoglobin. Recall that melanin is produced by cells called melanocytes, which are found scattered throughout the stratum basale of the epidermis. The melanin is transferred to the keratinocytes via melanosomes.
Melanin occurs in two primary forms: eumelanin that provides black and brown pigment and pheomelanin that provides red color. Dark-skinned individuals produce more melanin than those with pale...

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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 24, 2026

Using a 1064-nm Picosecond Neodymium-Doped Yttrium Aluminum Garnet Laser for Periorbital Hyperpigmentation
04:43

Using a 1064-nm Picosecond Neodymium-Doped Yttrium Aluminum Garnet Laser for Periorbital Hyperpigmentation

Published on: May 23, 2025

Laser resurfacing procedures in dark-skinned patients.

Anthony C Griffin

    Aesthetic Surgery Journal
    |April 3, 2009
    PubMed
    Summary

    Laser resurfacing requires caution in patients with dark skin (Fitzpatrick types III-VI) due to documented risks like hyperpigmentation and scarring. Preoperative treatments are less effective for preventing laser-induced hyperpigmentation in these individuals.

    Area of Science:

    • Dermatology
    • Aesthetic Medicine

    Background:

    • Laser resurfacing is a common cosmetic procedure.
    • Darker skin types (Fitzpatrick III-VI) are at higher risk for adverse effects.
    • Complications include hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation, and scarring.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To provide a perspective on laser resurfacing in dark-skinned patients.
    • To highlight the risks and limitations of laser procedures in this demographic.

    Main Methods:

    • Review of existing literature and clinical experience.
    • Comparative analysis of laser resurfacing with other skin rejuvenation techniques (chemical peels, dermabrasion).

    Main Results:

    • Laser resurfacing carries a significant risk of complications in Fitzpatrick skin types III-VI.

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  • Postoperative hyperpigmentation is a documented concern.
  • Preoperative treatments do not effectively prevent hyperpigmentation after laser resurfacing, unlike with chemical peels or dermabrasion.

    • Conclusions:

    • A cautious approach is recommended for laser resurfacing in dark-skinned patients.
    • Alternative resurfacing methods may offer better control over postoperative pigmentation.
    • Further research may be needed to optimize laser techniques for darker skin types.