My face is becoming darker. Will intense pulsed light help me?

Question

Hello doctor,

My facial skin has become dark and is becoming darker after applying tan removal cream or any moisturizing cream.

Should I try for IPL (intense pulsed light) skin treatment?

Kindly give your suggestions.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Thank you for explaining your concern so clearly. I understand how frustrating it is when pigmentation worsens despite using creams meant to improve it.

Based on your description, the darkening after using tan-removal or moisturizing creams suggests irritant or contact dermatitis with post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, possibly due to overuse or misuse of Hydroquinone.

This is quite common in Indian skin types. When the skin barrier is damaged by strong products or frequent changes, inflammation occurs, which leads to increased pigmentation in darker skin tones.

Hydroquinone works only when used correctly, for a limited time, and under medical supervision. Prolonged or unsupervised use can worsen pigmentation, cause irritation, rebound darkening, and rarely ochronosis.

Therefore, the most important step now is to stop all tan-removal creams and Hydroquinone and allow the skin barrier to heal.

At this stage, IPL (intense pulsed light) treatment is not advised, as treating irritated or inflamed skin can worsen pigmentation and cause burns or patchy discoloration. The risks currently outweigh the benefits.

For the next two to three weeks, focus on skin repair:

Use a gentle, soap-free face wash twice daily.
Apply a bland, fragrance-free, ceramide-based moisturizer that contains Glycerin, Pentylene Glycol, and Hydrogenated Lecithin.
Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen SPF (sun protection factor) 30+ daily, even indoors.
Avoid sun exposure, scrubs, facials, peels, and home remedies.

Once irritation settles (after approximately two weeks), you may start Azelaic acid or low-strength Kojic acid, applying a pea-sized amount at night under a moisturizer for six to eight weeks.

Procedures like chemical peels, laser, or IPL should be considered only after inflammation is fully controlled and under dermatology supervision. A safer procedural option is Tranexamic acid mesotherapy, sometimes combined with chemical peels.

This type of pigmentation is reversible, but it requires patience and gentle care.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.