Hyperpigmentation Treatment

Understanding how the Candela GentleMax Pro Plus compares to other common modalities helps patients make informed decisions.

Maison Zolara does not offer IPL Photofacial, chemical peels as a standalone pigmentation treatment, or topical lightening agents as in-office services. The comparison above is provided for educational context only.

This is the section that national health publishers consistently fail to address with the specificity that patients with melanin-rich skin deserve — and it's one of the most important conversations we have at our west Lansing studio.

Laser pigmentation treatment requires careful parameter selection for patients with Fitzpatrick skin types IV–VI. The core risk is post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) as a treatment side effect — meaning that an aggressive or poorly calibrated laser treatment can worsen the very condition it was intended to address. This is not a reason to avoid laser treatment; it is a reason to choose a provider who understands the science and has the clinical protocols to mitigate this risk.

Skin Tone Safety Notice: Patients with Fitzpatrick skin types IV–VI are at elevated risk for treatment-induced PIH if laser parameters are not appropriately adjusted. The 1064 nm Nd:YAG wavelength on the Candela GentleMax Pro Plus is specifically selected for these patients because of its reduced affinity for epidermal melanin. Our licensed RN clinicians conduct a thorough Fitzpatrick skin type assessment at every consultation before any treatment is planned.

Melasma requires a separate conversation. Because melasma is hormonally driven and deeply linked to ongoing triggers (UV exposure, visible light, hormonal fluctuations), it is a chronic condition requiring ongoing management — not a single-session cure. The American Academy of Dermatology notes that laser and light treatments for melasma should be used adjunctively alongside sun protection and, where appropriate, topical therapies. ↗ Patients with melasma should expect a management plan, not a one-time fix, and should be counseled on the importance of rigorous daily broad-spectrum SPF use — including on cloudy days and indoors near windows.

Our safeguards include:

• Fitzpatrick skin type assessment at every consultation
• Wavelength selection matched to skin tone
• Conservative fluence (energy) settings with gradual titration
• Mandatory sun avoidance and SPF protocol post-treatment
• Follow-up assessment before each subsequent session

Laser pigmentation treatment is one tool in a broader toolkit. The right approach depends on your skin type, the type of hyperpigmentation, its depth, and your lifestyle. Here is a neutral overview of the landscape.

Laser Treatment (Candela GentleMax Pro Plus)

A targeted, in-office treatment that uses selective photothermolysis to fragment melanin deposits. Best suited for discrete pigmented lesions, PIH, and diffuse uneven tone. Requires a series of sessions and strict sun protection. Fitzpatrick-appropriate wavelength selection is essential. Results are typically visible within weeks of the first session and continue to improve over the treatment series.

Non-Laser Alternatives

Chemical peels (available at Maison Zolara — see our chemical peels page) use acid-based exfoliants to accelerate cell turnover and reduce surface pigmentation. Topical lightening agents (prescription or OTC) work at the melanocyte level to inhibit melanin production — these are often used as adjunctive therapy alongside laser treatment. Neither modality offers the same depth of targeting as laser for established pigmented lesions, but both have a role in comprehensive pigmentation management.

For patients with acne-related PIH, our acne treatment page covers how addressing active breakouts is often the first step in preventing new pigmentation from forming.

Hyperpigmentation treatment with the Candela GentleMax Pro Plus is appropriate for a wide range of patients — including patients with darker skin tones who may have been told elsewhere that laser treatment isn't suitable for them. The dual-wavelength platform and our clinical protocols are specifically designed to treat the full Fitzpatrick spectrum safely.

The following framework helps set expectations, though a consultation is always required before any treatment plan is confirmed.

Good Candidates

• Adults with PIH from acne, eczema, or skin injury
• Patients with diffuse uneven skin tone or blotchiness
• Patients with melasma seeking adjunctive laser management alongside sun protection
• Fitzpatrick skin types I–VI (with appropriate wavelength selection)
• Patients committed to strict sun protection before and after treatment
• Patients in the greater Lansing area including Mason, DeWitt, and Williamston

Not a Good Fit

• Active skin infections or open wounds in the treatment area
• Recent significant sun exposure or active tan
• Pregnancy (laser treatments are deferred until postpartum)
• Patients on photosensitizing medications without physician clearance
• Patients with a history of keloid scarring (requires individual assessment)
• Patients unwilling or unable to commit to post-treatment sun protection

Hyperpigmentation occurs when melanocytes — the pigment-producing cells in the skin — generate excess melanin in response to a trigger. According to a 2024 update to the StatPearls clinical reference published by the National Institutes of Health, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is a common acquired disorder that follows skin inflammation or injury, and is more prevalent and more severe in individuals with darker skin tones, particularly those with Fitzpatrick skin types III–VI. ↗

Laser-based treatments work through a principle called selective photothermolysis: the laser emits a specific wavelength of light that is preferentially absorbed by melanin in the skin. The targeted melanin absorbs the energy, is fragmented, and is gradually cleared by the body's natural processes — leaving surrounding tissue intact. The result, over a series of sessions, is a more uniform skin tone.

According to a 2023 peer-reviewed study published in American Journal of Clinical Dermatology by MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, laser-based devices can be used effectively for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation in Fitzpatrick skin phototypes III–VI when parameters are carefully selected. ↗

The key phrase is carefully selected. Not all laser settings are appropriate for all skin tones, and this is precisely why clinical supervision matters — a point we address in detail in the Safety section below.

Before Your Treatment

Your journey begins with a free consultation at our west Lansing studio at 4820 W Saginaw Hwy. Our licensed RN clinicians will assess your skin tone using the Fitzpatrick scale, review your medical history (including any medications that increase photosensitivity), identify the type and depth of your hyperpigmentation, and develop a personalized treatment plan. You'll receive pre-treatment instructions including sun avoidance for at least two weeks prior and discontinuation of any photosensitizing topicals (retinoids, AHAs) as directed. No makeup on the day of treatment.

During Treatment

Sessions typically take 20–45 minutes depending on the treatment area. The Candela GentleMax Pro Plus's integrated Dynamic Cooling Device delivers a brief cryogen spray before each pulse, significantly reducing discomfort. Most patients describe the sensation as a quick snap followed by a cooling sensation. No topical anesthetic is typically required, though it can be discussed at consultation. You'll wear protective eyewear throughout.

After Treatment

Immediately following treatment, the treated area may appear slightly red and the pigmented spots may temporarily darken — this is a normal and expected response indicating that the melanin has absorbed the laser energy. This darkening typically resolves within 7–14 days as the fragmented pigment rises to the surface and flakes away naturally. Strict sun avoidance and broad-spectrum SPF 30+ (applied daily, reapplied every two hours outdoors) are non-negotiable post-treatment requirements. Results continue to develop over 4–6 weeks following each session.

Proper aftercare is essential to achieving the best possible results and protecting your skin between sessions. The most important thing you can do after laser pigmentation treatment is protect the treated skin from UV exposure — sun exposure after treatment can re-trigger melanin production and undo your progress.

Do

• Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ every morning, rain or shine
• Reapply sunscreen every two hours when outdoors
• Keep the treated area clean and moisturized
• Use gentle, fragrance-free cleansers for the first week
• Wear a wide-brim hat when outdoors
• Let darkened spots flake away naturally — do not pick
• Attend all scheduled follow-up sessions

Avoid

• Direct sun exposure for at least 2 weeks post-treatment
• Tanning beds or self-tanner on treated areas
• Picking, scratching, or exfoliating treated skin
• Retinoids, AHAs, BHAs, or other active ingredients for 5–7 days
• Hot showers, saunas, or steam rooms for 48 hours
• Strenuous exercise for 24–48 hours post-treatment
• Applying makeup to visibly irritated skin

Hyperpigmentation treatment at Maison Zolara is priced transparently, with final pricing confirmed at your free consultation based on the treatment area, number of sessions recommended, and your individual skin assessment.

• Standard pricing: From $275 per session
• Maison Circle member pricing: From $235 per session
• Package pricing: From $1,299 for a multi-session package

Maison Circle members receive member pricing on hyperpigmentation treatment and can track their treatment journey in the Zolara Care app (available on the App Store). Learn more about membership →

All pricing is confirmed at consultation. Final session count depends on the type, depth, and extent of pigmentation, as well as individual skin response.

Hyperpigmentation treatment at our west Lansing studio starts From $275 per session. Maison Circle members receive member pricing starting From $235 and can track their treatment journey in the Zolara Care app (available on the App Store).

The device at the center of our pigmentation protocol is the Candela GentleMax Pro Plus — a dual-wavelength laser platform that combines a 755 nm Alexandrite laser with a 1064 nm Nd:YAG laser in a single system. This dual-wavelength capability is clinically significant: it allows our licensed RN clinicians to select the most appropriate wavelength for each patient's skin tone and pigmentation type, rather than applying a one-size-fits-all approach.

755 nm Alexandrite Wavelength

The Alexandrite wavelength is highly absorbed by melanin, making it effective for targeting superficial pigmented lesions in lighter skin tones (Fitzpatrick types I–III). It delivers precise energy to melanin-rich cells while the integrated Dynamic Cooling Device™ (DCD) protects the surrounding epidermis with a cryogen spray.

1064 nm Nd:YAG Wavelength

The longer Nd:YAG wavelength penetrates deeper into the dermis and is less aggressively absorbed by epidermal melanin — making it the preferred choice for patients with medium to deep skin tones (Fitzpatrick types IV–VI). This is the wavelength that allows us to treat a broader range of skin tones safely, including patients who may have been told elsewhere that laser treatment isn't an option for them.

Dynamic Cooling Device (DCD)

The integrated cryogen cooling system delivers a millisecond burst of cooling to the skin surface immediately before each laser pulse. This dramatically reduces surface discomfort and helps protect the epidermis — particularly important when treating patients with higher melanin content in the skin.

FDA-Cleared Platform

The Candela GentleMax Pro Plus is FDA-cleared for the treatment of pigmented lesions, among other indications. Maison Zolara is an authorized Candela partner.

Maison Zolara is located in west Lansing at 4820 W Saginaw Hwy, conveniently accessible from across the mid-Michigan region. We welcome patients from East Lansing, Okemos, Holt, DeWitt, Grand Ledge, Mason, Charlotte, St. Johns, and Williamston — typically within a 30-mile radius of our studio.

Our hours are 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM Monday through Friday and 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM on Saturday. Free consultations are available by appointment. Book your consultation →

1. Callender VD, et al. Review of Laser Treatments for Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation in Skin of Color. American Journal of Clinical Dermatology. 2023;24(3):381–396. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36781686/

2. Vashi NA, Kundu RV. Postinflammatory Hyperpigmentation. StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Nov 25. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK559150/

3. American Academy of Dermatology. Melasma: Diagnosis and Treatment. https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/melasma-treatment

Page Disclaimer: The information on this page is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Clinical references are sourced from peer-reviewed research and named institutions as cited below. Individual results vary. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before beginning any treatment.

The Medical Director provides clinical oversight of treatments performed at this practice. The Medical Director does not author, review, or endorse website content.

Candela® and GentleMax Pro Plus® are registered trademarks of Candela Corporation. Maison Zolara is an authorized Candela partner.