Solar-Induced Postinflammatory Hyperpigmentation after Laser Hair Removal

BACKGROUND: Postinflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIHP) is a frequently encountered problem in many cosmetic procedures. The treatment of PIHP is difficult and remains a challenge. OBJECTIVE: To treat a patient who developed multiple hyperpigmented macules on her thighs due to sun exposure after treatment of unwanted hair using a normal-mode ruby pulse laser. METHODS: The patient was treated daily with tretinoin (Retin A) 0.1% cream, triamcinolone 0.1% cream, and hydroquinone 4% cream with sunscreen (Solaquin forte), and was to avoid sun exposure. Several sites received monthly treatment of 40% trichloroacetic acid (TCA). The degree of clinical improvement of the hyperpigmentation was assessed by both the physician and the patient. RESULTS: Cosmetic results were fair. The amount of hair in her thighs was reduced but the PIHP responded only slightly to therapy. CONCLUSION: To our knowledge this is the first case of solar-induced PIHP following laser hair removal. The treatment of PIHP is difficult because there are few therapeutic options that are consistently successful. Avoidance of exposure to ultraviolet light should be emphasized to all patients prior to laser therapy. We demonstrated that serial TCA peels provided an additional benefit compared to medical treatment.