Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is a prevalent disorder of pigmentation in skin of color. It most often and harshly affects phototypes that are rich in melanin and usually has a chronic and unpredictable course. It raises significant treatment challenges and frequently demands a multi-factorial approach.

The present study reviewed the literature available for the optimal use of laser-based devices in treating post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, specifically for Fitzpatrick skin phototypesIII–VII. It found that-

• For treating post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation in skin of color, lasers remain the second line to topical agents due to their variable response, cost, and risk of complications. 
• For post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation immune to topicals, laser devices, specifically neodymium:yttrium-aluminum-garnet and fractional photothermolysis systems, with appropriate parameters, can deliver adjunctive treatment in the skin of color patients. 

Future studies would benefit from an objective and consistent assessment for a systematic analysis.

Sowash M, Alster T. Review of Laser Treatments for Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation in Skin of Color. Am J Clin Dermatol. 2023. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40257-023-00759-7