Pigmentation
Hyperpigmentation is a general term for localized or overall darkening of the skin — at its core.
Real Hyperpigmentation Cases by our physician
The four cases below were personally treated by our physician at our Nanjing clinic, with signed Media Release Forms on file. Pigmentation is an umbrella term covering multiple underlying causes, and individual responses vary significantly. Actual outcomes are determined at in-person consultation.
Case 8 · Real Pigmentation Record
- Client Profile
- Asian female · Fitzpatrick IV
- Concerns
- Hyperpigmentation (Comprehensive Improvement via Multimodal Combination Protocol)
- Treatment Plan
- Dual picosecond combination therapy + Pico® brightening & rejuvenation + PicoSure® + PicoSure Pro® and 5 other modalities (multiple sessions within 3 months)
- Improvement Results
- Marked improvement in pigmentation · naturally balanced overall result
- PIH / paradoxical darkening
- No PIH
- Maintenance
- PRP Quarterly × 1 + Ultherapy 18-month maintenance + strict sun protection
Case 08: Hyperpigmentation before comparison · Asian female · Fitzpatrick IV · Multimodal combination protocol led by our physician at Luowei Medical Aesthetics Clinic, Nanjing
Case 9 · Real Hyperpigmentation Records
- Client Profile
- Asian female · Fitzpatrick IV
- Concerns
- VISIA Pigment analysis · Generalized pigmentation
- Treatment Plan
- Dual Pico Combination Therapy + PicoSure® + PicoSure Pro® + PicoWay® and 5 modalities total (multiple sessions within 3 months)
- Improvement Results
- Marked improvement in pigmentation · naturally balanced overall result
- PIH / paradoxical darkening
- No PIH
- Maintenance
- Daily sun protection + monthly home care + quarterly assessment
Case 09: Hyperpigmentation Before Comparison · Asian Female · Fitzpatrick IV · Multimodal combination protocol led by our physician at Luowei Medical Aesthetics Clinic, Nanjing
Case 10 · Real-world pigmentation record
- Client Profile
- Asian female · Fitzpatrick IV · Duration 6-12 months
- Concerns
- VISIA Assessment · Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH) · Post-Acne Marks
- Treatment Plan
- Dual Pico combination therapy + PicoSure® + PicoSure Pro® + PicoWay® (3–4 sessions)
- Improvement Results
- Marked improvement in pigmentation · naturally balanced overall result
- PIH / paradoxical darkening
- No PIH
- Maintenance
- Mesotherapy Monthly × 3 + home retinoid + SPF 50+
Case 10: Pigmentation pre-treatment comparison · Asian female · Fitzpatrick IV · 6–12 month duration · Multimodal combination protocol led by our physician at Luowei Medical Aesthetics Clinic, Nanjing
Case 11 · Real Pigmentation Record
- Client Profile
- Asian female · Fitzpatrick IV · Duration 6-12 months
- Concerns
- VISIA Assessment · Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH) · Post-Acne Marks
- Treatment Plan
- PicoSure® + Vbeam® sensitive-skin repair (3–4 sessions)
- Improvement Results
- Marked improvement in pigmentation · naturally balanced overall result
- PIH / paradoxical darkening
- No PIH
- Maintenance
- Mesotherapy Monthly × 3 + home retinoid + SPF 50+
Case 11: Pigmentation Before Comparison · Asian female · Fitzpatrick IV · Duration 6-12 months · Multimodal combination protocol led by our physician at Luowei Medical Aesthetics Clinic, Nanjing
Case 12 · Real Hyperpigmentation Records
- Client Profile
- Asian female · Fitzpatrick IV · Duration 6-12 months
- Concerns
- VISIA Assessment · Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH) · Post-Acne Marks
- Treatment Plan
- Dual Pico Combination Therapy + PicoSure® + PicoSure Pro® + PicoWay® and 5 modalities total (3–4 sessions)
- Improvement Results
- Marked improvement in pigmentation · naturally balanced overall result
- PIH / paradoxical darkening
- No PIH
- Maintenance
- Mesotherapy Monthly × 3 + home retinoid + SPF 50+
Case 12: Hyperpigmentation before comparison · Asian female · Fitzpatrick IV · 6–12 months duration · Multimodal combination protocol led by our physician at Luowei Medical Aesthetics Clinic, Nanjing
Case 1 · Real Hyperpigmentation Records
- Client Profile
- Asian female · Fitzpatrick IV
- Concerns
- Hyperpigmentation (Comprehensive Improvement via Multimodal Combination Protocol)
- Treatment Plan
- Dual picosecond combination therapy + Pico® brightening & rejuvenation + PicoSure® + PicoSure Pro® and 5 other modalities (multiple sessions within 3 months)
- Improvement Results
- Marked improvement in pigmentation · naturally balanced overall result
- PIH / paradoxical darkening
- No PIH
- Maintenance
- Daily sun protection + monthly home care + quarterly assessment
Case 01: Pigmentation Before Comparison · Asian female · Fitzpatrick IV · Multimodal combination protocol led by our physician at Luowei Medical Aesthetics Clinic, Nanjing
Case 2 · Real-world hyperpigmentation record
- Client Profile
- Asian female · Fitzpatrick IV · 3–5 year duration
- Concerns
- Hyperpigmentation (Comprehensive Improvement via Multimodal Combination Protocol)
- Treatment Plan
- Fotona® Redness Laser + Laser Vascular Treatment + Vbeam Perfecta + Vbeam® Redness Reduction — 12 treatments total (1 session)
- Improvement Results
- Marked improvement in pigmentation · naturally balanced overall result
- PIH / paradoxical darkening
- No PIH
- Maintenance
- Sofwave/Ultherapy 18-24 months of maintenance + home care
Case 02: Pigmentation pre-treatment comparison · Asian female · Fitzpatrick IV · 3–5 year duration · Multimodal combination protocol led by our physician at Luowei Medical Aesthetics Clinic, Nanjing
Case 3 · Real-world pigmentation record
- Client Profile
- Asian female · Fitzpatrick IV · Long-term duration
- Concerns
- Hyperpigmentation (Comprehensive Improvement via Multimodal Combination Protocol)
- Treatment Plan
- PicoSure® + PicoSure Pro® + PicoWay® (1–2 sessions)
- Improvement Results
- Marked improvement in pigmentation · naturally balanced overall result
- PIH / paradoxical darkening
- No PIH
- Maintenance
- Daily sun protection + monthly home care + quarterly assessment
Case 03: Pigmentation pre-treatment comparison · Asian female · Fitzpatrick IV · Long-term duration · Multimodal combination protocol led by our physician at Luowei Medical Aesthetics Clinic, Nanjing
Case 3 · Real-world pigmentation record
- Client Profile
- Asian male · Fitzpatrick IV
- Concerns
- Hyperpigmentation (Comprehensive Improvement via Multimodal Combination Protocol)
- Treatment Plan
- Dual picosecond combination therapy + Pico® brightening & rejuvenation + PicoSure® + PicoSure Pro® and 5 other modalities (multiple sessions within 3 months)
- Improvement Results
- Marked improvement in pigmentation · naturally balanced overall result
- PIH / paradoxical darkening
- No PIH
- Maintenance
- Annual follow-up + long-term SPF 50 · top-up sessions as needed
Case 03: Hyperpigmentation before comparison · Asian male · Fitzpatrick IV · Multimodal combination protocol led by our physician at Luowei Medical Aesthetics Clinic, Nanjing
Case 4 · Real Pigmentation Record
- Client Profile
- Asian female · Fitzpatrick IV
- Concerns
- Hyperpigmentation (Comprehensive Improvement via Multimodal Combination Protocol)
- Treatment Plan
- Dual Pico combination therapy + Pico® brightening rejuvenation + PicoSure® + PicoSure Pro® and 8 other treatments (multiple sessions within 3 months)
- Improvement Results
- Marked improvement in pigmentation · naturally balanced overall result
- PIH / paradoxical darkening
- No PIH
- Maintenance
- Daily sun protection + monthly home care + quarterly assessment
Case 04: Hyperpigmentation Before Comparison · Asian Female · Fitzpatrick IV · Multimodal combination protocol led by our physician at Luowei Medical Aesthetics Clinic, Nanjing
Case 4 · Real Pigmentation Record
- Client Profile
- Asian Female · Fitzpatrick I
- Concerns
- Hyperpigmentation (Comprehensive Improvement via Multimodal Combination Protocol)
- Treatment Plan
- Pico® Brightening rejuvenation + PicoSure® + PicoSure Pro® + PicoWay® and 14 other treatments (multiple sessions within 3 months)
- Improvement Results
- Marked improvement in pigmentation · naturally balanced overall result
- PIH / paradoxical darkening
- No PIH
- Maintenance
- Hydrafacial/Monthly mesotherapy × 1 + sun protection
Case 04: Hyperpigmentation before comparison · Asian female · Fitzpatrick I · Multimodal combination protocol led by our physician at Luowei Medical Aesthetics Clinic, Nanjing
Case 5 · Real Hyperpigmentation Records
- Client Profile
- Asian female · Fitzpatrick IV
- Concerns
- Hyperpigmentation (Comprehensive Improvement via Multimodal Combination Protocol)
- Treatment Plan
- Dual Pico Combination Therapy + Pico® Brightening & Rejuvenation + PicoSure® + PicoSure Pro® and 9 modalities total (multiple sessions within 3 months)
- Improvement Results
- Marked improvement in pigmentation · naturally balanced overall result
- PIH / paradoxical darkening
- No PIH
- Maintenance
- Daily sun protection + monthly home care + quarterly assessment
Case 05: Pigmentation pre-treatment comparison · Asian female · Fitzpatrick IV · Multimodal combination protocol led by our physician at Luowei Medical Aesthetics Clinic, Nanjing
Case 6 · Real-world hyperpigmentation record
- Client Profile
- Asian female · Fitzpatrick IV
- Concerns
- Hyperpigmentation (Comprehensive Improvement via Multimodal Combination Protocol)
- Treatment Plan
- BTL Exilis Ultra™ + BTL Exilis Ultra 360 + Fotona 4D + Fotona™ 4D® Lift and 17 other modalities (multiple sessions within 3 months)
- Improvement Results
- Marked improvement in pigmentation · naturally balanced overall result
- PIH / paradoxical darkening
- No PIH
- Maintenance
- Daily sun protection + monthly home care + quarterly assessment
Case 06: Pigmentation Before Comparison · Asian female · Fitzpatrick IV · Multimodal combination protocol led by our physician at Luowei Medical Aesthetics Clinic, Nanjing
Case 7 · Real-world pigmentation record
- Client Profile
- Asian female · Fitzpatrick IV · Duration 6-12 months
- Concerns
- VISIA Assessment · Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH) · Post-Acne Marks
- Treatment Plan
- PicoSure® + PicoSure Pro® + PicoWay® (3–4 sessions)
- Improvement Results
- Marked improvement in pigmentation · naturally balanced overall result
- PIH / paradoxical darkening
- No PIH
- Maintenance
- Mesotherapy Monthly × 3 + home retinoid + SPF 50+
Case 07: Pigmentation Before Comparison · Asian female · Fitzpatrick IV · Duration 6-12 months · Multimodal combination protocol led by our physician at Luowei Medical Aesthetics Clinic, Nanjing
Case 8 · Real Pigmentation Record
- Client Profile
- Asian female · Fitzpatrick IV · Duration 6-12 months
- Concerns
- VISIA Assessment · Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH) · Post-Acne Marks
- Treatment Plan
- PicoSure® + PicoSure Pro® + PicoWay® (3–4 sessions)
- Improvement Results
- Marked improvement in pigmentation · naturally balanced overall result
- PIH / paradoxical darkening
- No PIH
- Maintenance
- Mesotherapy Monthly × 3 + home retinoid + SPF 50+
Case 08: Hyperpigmentation before comparison · Asian female · Fitzpatrick IV · 6–12 months duration · Multimodal combination protocol led by our physician at Luowei Medical Aesthetics Clinic, Nanjing
Case 9 · Real Hyperpigmentation Records
- Client Profile
- Asian Female · Fitzpatrick IV · Duration: 5 years
- Concerns
- Hyperpigmentation (Comprehensive Improvement via Multimodal Combination Protocol)
- Treatment Plan
- Dual Pico combination therapy + PicoSure® + PicoSure Pro® + PicoWay® and 5 other treatments (4 sessions)
- Improvement Results
- Marked improvement in pigmentation · naturally balanced overall result
- PIH / paradoxical darkening
- No PIH
- Maintenance
- Daily sun protection + monthly home care + quarterly assessment
Case 09: Pigmentation Before Comparison · Asian female · Fitzpatrick IV · Duration 5 years · Multimodal combination protocol led by our physician at Luowei Medical Aesthetics Clinic, Nanjing
Case 9 · Real Hyperpigmentation Records
- Client Profile
- Asian female · Fitzpatrick IV · Duration 6-12 months
- Concerns
- VISIA Assessment · Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH) · Post-Acne Marks
- Treatment Plan
- PicoSure® + PicoSure Pro® + PicoWay® (3–4 sessions)
- Improvement Results
- Marked improvement in pigmentation · naturally balanced overall result
- PIH / paradoxical darkening
- No PIH
- Maintenance
- Mesotherapy Monthly × 3 + home retinoid + SPF 50+
Case 09: Hyperpigmentation Before Comparison · Asian Female · Fitzpatrick IV · Duration 6–12 months · Multimodal combination protocol led by our physician at Luowei Medical Aesthetics Clinic, Nanjing
Case 12 · Real Hyperpigmentation Records
- Client Profile
- Asian female · Fitzpatrick IV · Long-term duration
- Concerns
- Hyperpigmentation (Comprehensive Improvement via Multimodal Combination Protocol)
- Treatment Plan
- PicoSure® + PicoSure Pro® + PicoWay® (1–2 sessions)
- Improvement Results
- Marked improvement in pigmentation · naturally balanced overall result
- PIH / paradoxical darkening
- No PIH
- Maintenance
- Daily sun protection + monthly home care + quarterly assessment
Case 12: Pigmentation Before Comparison · Asian female · Fitzpatrick IV · Long-standing · Multimodal combination protocol led by our physician at Luowei Medical Aesthetics Clinic, Nanjing
Case 13 · Real-world hyperpigmentation record
- Client Profile
- Asian female · Fitzpatrick IV · Long-term duration
- Concerns
- Hyperpigmentation (Comprehensive Improvement via Multimodal Combination Protocol)
- Treatment Plan
- PicoSure® + PicoSure Pro® + PicoWay® (1–2 sessions)
- Improvement Results
- Marked improvement in pigmentation · naturally balanced overall result
- PIH / paradoxical darkening
- No PIH
- Maintenance
- Daily sun protection + monthly home care + quarterly assessment
Case 13: Hyperpigmentation before comparison · Asian female · Fitzpatrick IV · long-standing · Multimodal combination protocol led by our physician at Luowei Medical Aesthetics Clinic, Nanjing
Case 16 · Real-world pigmentation record
- Client Profile
- Asian female · Fitzpatrick IV · Long-term duration
- Concerns
- Hyperpigmentation (Comprehensive Improvement via Multimodal Combination Protocol)
- Treatment Plan
- PicoSure® + PicoSure Pro® + PicoWay® (1–2 sessions)
- Improvement Results
- Marked improvement in pigmentation · naturally balanced overall result
- PIH / paradoxical darkening
- No PIH
- Maintenance
- Daily sun protection + monthly home care + quarterly assessment
Case 16: Hyperpigmentation Before Comparison · Asian Female · Fitzpatrick IV · Duration Long-term · Multimodal combination protocol led by our physician at Luowei Medical Aesthetics Clinic, Nanjing
Case 16 · Real-world pigmentation record
- Client Profile
- Asian Female · Fitzpatrick IV · Duration: noticeably ~1–2 years
- Concerns
- Hyperpigmentation (Comprehensive Improvement via Multimodal Combination Protocol)
- Treatment Plan
- Pico® Brightening & Rejuvenation + PicoSure® + PicoSure Pro® + PicoWay® — 12 treatments total (multiple sessions within 3 months)
- Improvement Results
- Marked improvement in pigmentation · naturally balanced overall result
- PIH / paradoxical darkening
- No PIH
- Maintenance
- Daily sun protection + monthly home care + quarterly assessment
Case 16: Pigmentation Before Comparison · Asian female · Fitzpatrick IV · Duration ~1-2 years (pronounced) · Multimodal combination protocol led by our physician at Luowei Medical Aesthetics Clinic, Nanjing
Case 18 · Real Pigmentation Record
- Client Profile
- Asian female · Fitzpatrick IV · Duration 6-12 months
- Concerns
- VISIA Assessment · Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH) · Post-Acne Marks
- Treatment Plan
- Dual Pico combination therapy + PicoSure® + PicoSure Pro® + PicoWay® (3–4 sessions)
- Improvement Results
- Marked improvement in pigmentation · naturally balanced overall result
- PIH / paradoxical darkening
- No PIH
- Maintenance
- Mesotherapy Monthly × 3 + home retinoid + SPF 50+
Case 18: Hyperpigmentation Before Comparison · Asian Female · Fitzpatrick IV · Duration 6–12 months · Multimodal combination protocol led by our physician at Luowei Medical Aesthetics Clinic, Nanjing
Case 20 · Real Hyperpigmentation Records
- Client Profile
- Asian female · Fitzpatrick IV · Duration 6-12 months
- Concerns
- VISIA Assessment · Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH) · Post-Acne Marks
- Treatment Plan
- PicoSure® + Vbeam® sensitive-skin repair (3–4 sessions)
- Improvement Results
- Marked improvement in pigmentation · naturally balanced overall result
- PIH / paradoxical darkening
- No PIH
- Maintenance
- Mesotherapy Monthly × 3 + home retinoid + SPF 50+
Case 20: Pigmentation pre-treatment comparison · Asian female · Fitzpatrick IV · 6–12 month duration · Multimodal combination protocol led by our physician at Luowei Medical Aesthetics Clinic, Nanjing
Case 21 · Real-world hyperpigmentation record
- Client Profile
- Asian female · Fitzpatrick IV · Long-term duration
- Concerns
- Hyperpigmentation (Comprehensive Improvement via Multimodal Combination Protocol)
- Treatment Plan
- Dual picosecond combination therapy + PicoSure® + PicoSure Pro® + PicoWay® and 7 other modalities (1–2 sessions)
- Improvement Results
- Marked improvement in pigmentation · naturally balanced overall result
- PIH / paradoxical darkening
- No PIH
- Maintenance
- Daily sun protection + monthly home care + quarterly assessment
Case 21: Pigmentation pre-treatment comparison · Asian female · Fitzpatrick IV · Long-term duration · Multimodal combination protocol led by our physician at Luowei Medical Aesthetics Clinic, Nanjing
Case 22 · Real-world pigmentation record
- Client Profile
- Asian female · Fitzpatrick IV · Long-term duration
- Concerns
- Hyperpigmentation (Comprehensive Improvement via Multimodal Combination Protocol)
- Treatment Plan
- Dual Pico combination therapy + PicoSure® + PicoSure Pro® + PicoWay® and 5 other treatments (1–2 sessions)
- Improvement Results
- Marked improvement in pigmentation · naturally balanced overall result
- PIH / paradoxical darkening
- No PIH
- Maintenance
- Daily sun protection + monthly home care + quarterly assessment
Case 22: Hyperpigmentation before comparison · Asian female · Fitzpatrick IV · long-standing · Multimodal combination protocol led by our physician at Luowei Medical Aesthetics Clinic, Nanjing
Case 22 · Real-world pigmentation record
- Client Profile
- Asian Female · Fitzpatrick I · Duration: 5 years
- Concerns
- Hyperpigmentation (Comprehensive Improvement via Multimodal Combination Protocol)
- Treatment Plan
- PicoSure® + IPL Photofacial (multiple sessions within 3 months)
- Improvement Results
- Marked improvement in pigmentation · naturally balanced overall result
- PIH / paradoxical darkening
- No PIH
- Maintenance
- Daily sun protection + monthly home care + quarterly assessment
Case 22: Pigmentation Before Comparison · Asian female · Fitzpatrick I · Duration 5 years · Multimodal combination protocol led by our physician at Luowei Medical Aesthetics Clinic, Nanjing
Case 32 · Real Pigmentation Record
- Client Profile
- Asian female · Fitzpatrick IV · Duration 6-12 months
- Concerns
- VISIA Assessment · Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH) · Post-Acne Marks
- Treatment Plan
- PicoSure® + PicoSure Pro® + PicoWay® (3–4 sessions)
- Improvement Results
- Marked improvement in pigmentation · naturally balanced overall result
- PIH / paradoxical darkening
- No PIH
- Maintenance
- Mesotherapy Monthly × 3 + home retinoid + SPF 50+
Case 32: Pigmentation Before Comparison · Asian female · Fitzpatrick IV · Duration 6-12 months · Multimodal combination protocol led by our physician at Luowei Medical Aesthetics Clinic, Nanjing
Case 33 · Real Hyperpigmentation Records
- Client Profile
- Asian female · Fitzpatrick IV · Duration 6-12 months
- Concerns
- VISIA Assessment · Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH) · Post-Acne Marks
- Treatment Plan
- PicoSure® + PicoSure Pro® + PicoWay® (3–4 sessions)
- Improvement Results
- Marked improvement in pigmentation · naturally balanced overall result
- PIH / paradoxical darkening
- No PIH
- Maintenance
- Mesotherapy Monthly × 3 + home retinoid + SPF 50+
Case 33: Hyperpigmentation before comparison · Asian female · Fitzpatrick IV · 6–12 months duration · Multimodal combination protocol led by our physician at Luowei Medical Aesthetics Clinic, Nanjing
Case 34 · Real-world hyperpigmentation record
- Client Profile
- Asian female · Fitzpatrick IV · Duration 6-12 months
- Concerns
- VISIA Assessment · Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH) · Post-Acne Marks
- Treatment Plan
- Dual Pico combination therapy + PicoSure® + PicoSure Pro® + PicoWay® (3–4 sessions)
- Improvement Results
- Marked improvement in pigmentation · naturally balanced overall result
- PIH / paradoxical darkening
- No PIH
- Maintenance
- Mesotherapy Monthly × 3 + home retinoid + SPF 50+
Case 34: Hyperpigmentation Before Comparison · Asian Female · Fitzpatrick IV · Duration 6–12 months · Multimodal combination protocol led by our physician at Luowei Medical Aesthetics Clinic, Nanjing
Case 38 · Real-world pigmentation record
- Client Profile
- Asian male · Fitzpatrick IV
- Concerns
- Hyperpigmentation (Comprehensive Improvement via Multimodal Combination Protocol)
- Treatment Plan
- Dual-Picosecond Combination Therapy + Pico® Brightening & Rejuvenation + PicoSure® + PicoSure Pro® — 7 treatments total (multiple sessions within 3 months)
- Improvement Results
- Marked improvement in pigmentation · naturally balanced overall result
- PIH / paradoxical darkening
- No PIH
- Maintenance
- Daily sun protection + monthly home care + quarterly assessment
Case 38: Pigmentation pre-treatment comparison · Asian male · Fitzpatrick IV · Multimodal combination protocol led by our physician at Luowei Medical Aesthetics Clinic, Nanjing
Case 40 · Real Pigmentation Record
- Client Profile
- Asian male · Fitzpatrick IV
- Concerns
- Hyperpigmentation (Comprehensive Improvement via Multimodal Combination Protocol)
- Treatment Plan
- Dual-Picosecond Combination Therapy + Pico® Brightening & Rejuvenation + PicoSure® + PicoSure Pro® — 7 treatments total (multiple sessions within 3 months)
- Improvement Results
- Marked improvement in pigmentation · naturally balanced overall result
- PIH / paradoxical darkening
- No PIH
- Maintenance
- Daily sun protection + monthly home care + quarterly assessment
Case 40: Pigmentation Before Comparison · Asian male · Fitzpatrick IV · Multimodal combination protocol led by our physician at Luowei Medical Aesthetics Clinic, Nanjing
Case 40 · Real Pigmentation Record
- Client Profile
- Asian Female · Fitzpatrick I
- Concerns
- Hyperpigmentation (Comprehensive Improvement via Multimodal Combination Protocol)
- Treatment Plan
- (3 months × multiple sessions)
- Improvement Results
- Marked improvement in pigmentation · naturally balanced overall result
- PIH / paradoxical darkening
- No PIH
- Maintenance
- Daily sun protection + monthly home care + quarterly assessment
Case 40: Hyperpigmentation Before Comparison · Asian Female · Fitzpatrick I · Multimodal combination protocol led by our physician at Luowei Medical Aesthetics Clinic, Nanjing
Case 41 · Real Hyperpigmentation Records
- Client Profile
- Asian female · Fitzpatrick IV
- Concerns
- Hyperpigmentation (Comprehensive Improvement via Multimodal Combination Protocol)
- Treatment Plan
- Dual-Picosecond Combination Therapy + Pico® Brightening & Rejuvenation + PicoSure® + PicoSure Pro® — 7 treatments total (multiple sessions within 3 months)
- Improvement Results
- Marked improvement in pigmentation · naturally balanced overall result
- PIH / paradoxical darkening
- No PIH
- Maintenance
- Daily sun protection + monthly home care + quarterly assessment
Case 41: Hyperpigmentation before comparison · Asian female · Fitzpatrick IV · Multimodal combination protocol led by our physician at Luowei Medical Aesthetics Clinic, Nanjing
Case 43 · Real-world hyperpigmentation record
- Client Profile
- Asian female · Fitzpatrick IV
- Concerns
- Hyperpigmentation (Comprehensive Improvement via Multimodal Combination Protocol)
- Treatment Plan
- Dual-Picosecond Combination Therapy + PicoSure® + PicoSure Pro® + PicoWay® (multiple sessions within 3 months)
- Improvement Results
- Marked improvement in pigmentation · naturally balanced overall result
- PIH / paradoxical darkening
- No PIH
- Maintenance
- Daily sun protection + monthly home care + quarterly assessment
Case 43: Hyperpigmentation Before Comparison · Asian Female · Fitzpatrick IV · Multimodal combination protocol led by our physician at Luowei Medical Aesthetics Clinic, Nanjing
Case 46 · Real-world pigmentation record
- Client Profile
- Asian female · Fitzpatrick IV
- Concerns
- Hyperpigmentation (Comprehensive Improvement via Multimodal Combination Protocol)
- Treatment Plan
- PicoSure® + PicoSure Pro® + PicoWay® (multiple sessions within 3 months)
- Improvement Results
- Marked improvement in pigmentation · naturally balanced overall result
- PIH / paradoxical darkening
- No PIH
- Maintenance
- Daily sun protection + monthly home care + quarterly assessment
Case 46: Pigmentation pre-treatment comparison · Asian female · Fitzpatrick IV · Multimodal combination protocol led by our physician at Luowei Medical Aesthetics Clinic, Nanjing
Case 49 · Real Pigmentation Record
- Client Profile
- Asian female · Fitzpatrick IV
- Concerns
- Hyperpigmentation (Comprehensive Improvement via Multimodal Combination Protocol)
- Treatment Plan
- Dual-Picosecond Combination Therapy + PicoSure® + PicoSure Pro® + PicoWay® (multiple sessions within 3 months)
- Improvement Results
- Marked improvement in pigmentation · naturally balanced overall result
- PIH / paradoxical darkening
- No PIH
- Maintenance
- Daily sun protection + monthly home care + quarterly assessment
Case 49: Pigmentation Before Comparison · Asian female · Fitzpatrick IV · Multimodal combination protocol led by our physician at Luowei Medical Aesthetics Clinic, Nanjing
Case 71 · Real Hyperpigmentation Records
- Client Profile
- Asian female · Fitzpatrick IV · Duration 6-12 months
- Concerns
- VISIA Assessment · Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH) · Post-Acne Marks
- Treatment Plan
- Dual Pico combination therapy + PicoSure® + PicoSure Pro® + PicoWay® (3–4 sessions)
- Improvement Results
- Marked improvement in pigmentation · naturally balanced overall result
- PIH / paradoxical darkening
- No PIH
- Maintenance
- Mesotherapy Monthly × 3 + home retinoid + SPF 50+
Case 71: Pigmentation pre-treatment comparison · Asian female · Fitzpatrick IV · 6–12 month duration · Multimodal combination protocol led by our physician at Luowei Medical Aesthetics Clinic, Nanjing
Case 76 · Real-world hyperpigmentation record
- Client Profile
- Asian male · Fitzpatrick IV · Long-standing
- Concerns
- Hyperpigmentation (Comprehensive Improvement via Multimodal Combination Protocol)
- Treatment Plan
- Dual Pico combination therapy + Pico® brightening rejuvenation + PicoSure® + PicoSure Pro® and 12 other treatments (multiple sessions within 3 months)
- Improvement Results
- Marked improvement in pigmentation · naturally balanced overall result
- PIH / paradoxical darkening
- No PIH
- Maintenance
- Annual follow-up + long-term SPF 50 · top-up sessions as needed
Case 76: Hyperpigmentation Before Comparison · Asian Male · Fitzpatrick IV · Duration Long-term · Multimodal combination protocol led by our physician at Luowei Medical Aesthetics Clinic, Nanjing
What is pigmentation? Why is it a group of ‘symptoms’ rather than a single disease?
Hyperpigmentation is a general term for localized or overall darkening of the skin — at its core, it’s Excess or abnormal melanin deposition in the epidermal / dermal layer. It is not a single diagnosis, but a group covering multiple subtypes including melasma, sun spots, freckles, PIH, friction-induced pigmentation, and drug-induced pigmentation —Combined pigment concerns. To treat it well, you first have to identify which type it is.
Why You Shouldn’t Treat Everything as Generic “Pigmentation”
Different subtypes vary in pigment location (epidermal / dermal) and triggers (sun / inflammation / hormonal / friction). Treating them all with a single IPL device leads to Partially effective, partially worsened.
Why are Asian patients more prone to it?
Fitzpatrick III–V Naturally higher melanocyte activity, combined with high North American UV exposure and chronic inflammatory triggers (acne / eczema / improper treatment), leads to significantly higher rates of hyperpigmentation than in Caucasian populations.
Why subtype classification matters before treatment
Must clearly identify Location (epidermal / dermal) + cause (inflammation / sun / hormones) + subtype. Wood’s lamp + VISIA + The three essential history-taking questions — none can be skipped.
Why do some pigmentations fade quickly and others slowly?
Epidermal pigment turns over in about 28 days; dermal pigment can take 6–18 months.Treatment cadence must align with the skin’s metabolic cycle, Overly aggressive treatment only triggers another round of rebound pigmentation.
Clinical key point:“Pigmentation” is the result, not the cause. The first step in our physician’s protocol is always Identify the subtype + uncover the trigger, rather than going straight to the laser. If the underlying trigger isn’t addressed, pigmentation will keep coming back no matter how many laser sessions you do.
Six causes of hyperpigmentation — identifying the trigger matters more than the laser
Clinically, 80% of failed hyperpigmentation cases aren’t caused by inadequate equipment — they’re caused by Starts treatment before resolving the trigger. Below are the six most common underlying causes our physician sees in clinical practice.
1. Cumulative UV exposure (UVA + UVB + visible light)
the most common trigger. In North America, summer UV index stays persistently high, and winter snow reflection adds further exposure, making the annual cumulative UV load on the skin higher than in most Asian countries. Blue light and red light also activate melanogenesis.
2. Post-inflammatory (PIH)
Brown marks on the skin following acne, eczema, scratching, over-exfoliation with acids, or mistreated laser sessions. Asian skin carries a moderately elevated risk, and these marks are highly prone to long-term retention when barrier repair is inadequate.
3. Hormonal fluctuations
Endocrine changes such as pregnancy, oral contraceptives, HRT, and thyroid disorders can trigger melasma-pattern distribution. This type of pigmentation responds poorly to laser alone and requires combined endocrine evaluation.
4. Mechanical friction / chronic irritation
Repeated friction on the neck, underarms, flexural areas, and bra strap zones — along with habits like rubbing the eyes or picking at the face — all trigger localized pigment darkening. This type of pigmentation Behavioral changes must come first.
5. Medication / cosmetic photosensitivity
Certain antibiotics (tetracyclines), anti-epileptics, oral contraceptives, and long-term use of fragranced essential oils / cosmetics can trigger photosensitive pigmentation. The triggering medication or product must be discontinued first.
6. Barrier impairment + chronic inflammation
Over-cleansing, long-term use of topical steroids, and irritating skincare ingredients all damage the epidermal barrier → melanocytes enter an ‘inflammatory hyperactive’ state → overall skin tone becomes dull.
The 4 subtypes of hyperpigmentation — which one are you?
“Hyperpigmentation” is an umbrella term. The 4 categories below are the core subtypes that must be clinically distinguished. Mismatched subtype → mismatched treatment → repeated clinic visits.
Melasma
Melasma · Melasma / Chloasma
| Distribution | Symmetric distribution across the cheeks, forehead, and upper lip |
|---|---|
| Morphology | Large cloud-like brown patches |
| Trigger | Hormones + UV + Genetics |
| Location | Epidermal / Dermal / Mixed |
| First-line treatment | PicoSure Pro Low-energy protocol + long-term maintenance |
Sun-induced pigmentation (Solar Lentigo / freckles)
Solar Lentigo · Ephelides
| Distribution | Randomly distributed in sun-exposed areas or concentrated on the nose and cheeks |
|---|---|
| Morphology | Discrete round / oval brown spots |
| Trigger | Cumulative sun exposure / genetics |
| Location | Superficial epidermis |
| First-line treatment | PicoSure Pro / Q-switched — often visible after the first session |
Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)
Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation
| Distribution | Original inflammation / acne marks / mistreated areas |
|---|---|
| Morphology | Irregular patches with blurred borders |
| Trigger | Acne, scratching, mistreated lasers, over-exfoliation |
| Location | Epidermal / dermal (depth varies) |
| First-line treatment | Barrier repair + ultra-low-energy Pico + time |
Friction-induced / drug-induced pigmentation
Frictional / Drug-induced
| Distribution | Neck, underarms, joints, areas of bra-strap friction |
|---|---|
| Morphology | Large diffuse brown patches |
| Trigger | Chronic friction / photosensitizing medications |
| Location | Epidermis + superficial dermis |
| First-line treatment | Address triggers + Fotona / IPL + Cyspera |
⚠️ Warning:Many clients come in saying “Our whole face is pigmented” — but clinically, 2–3 overlapping subtypes are often present at the same time.Stratified diagnosis + stratified treatment is the deciding factor in pigmentation treatment success. A one-size-fits-all approach can only ever address part of the problem.
Why must hyperpigmentation on Asian skin be treated with a “Fitzpatrick III–V specialty protocol”?
Blind spots of mainstream North American clinics
Most North American aesthetic clinics derive their IPL/laser parameters from clinical data on Fitzpatrick I–II (Caucasian) skin. Applying those settings directly to Fitzpatrick III–V Asian skin creates three core problems:
- ✗ Energy overload carries high PIH risk— 5–10× higher epidermal melanin content, absorbing excess heat
- ✗ Insufficient stratified diagnosis— Fires up the device without doing a Wood’s lamp exam
- ✗ Overlooking the dermal component— Asian pigmentation often contains a deep dermal component
Our physician’s specialty adjustments for Fitzpatrick III–V
| Parameters | North American standard | Asian-adjusted |
|---|---|---|
| Energy density | 3.0–4.0 J/cm² | 1.0–2.0 J/cm² |
| Pulse Width | 10–15 ms | 2–10 ms Short pulse width |
| Interval | 3 weeks | 4–6 weeks |
| Test spot | Optional | Required |
| Pre-treatment | none | 4 weeks of barrier repair + brightening prep |
6 treatment protocols for pigmentation — combined by subtype
There is no “one-device-treats-all” miracle. We combine the devices and protocols below based on Wood’s lamp classification, subtype composition, and underlying triggers.
PicoSure Pro PicoSure Pro
755nm Short-pulse picosecond laser paired with the Focus Lens low-energy protocol — addresses Epidermal pigmentation + freckles + age spots + mild-to-moderate PIH all-in-one platform. Our physician uses that platform.
IPL Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)
Broad-spectrum light source, suitable for Overall dull complexion + widespread superficial pigmentation + telangiectasia with concurrent pigmentation. Asian skin requires low energy + test spot; never used as a first-line treatment for melasma.
Fotona ClearGlow(FRAC3)
1064nm Long pulse width — suited for Dermal pigmentation + friction-induced pigmentation + neck/underarm pigmentation, while simultaneously stimulating collagen.
Brightening Hydro-Injection (Glutathione + Tranexamic Acid)
Targeted injection into the superficial dermis suppresses tyrosinase from within → reducing new pigment formation. Used between laser sessions to accelerate pigment clearance.
Chemical peels (lactic acid / mandelic acid / superficial TCA)
Accelerates epidermal turnover and pigment shedding. For PIH Post-acne pigmentation Particularly effective. Strict patient selection and recovery planning required.
HydraFacial Hydrating rejuvenation
3 all-in-one cleansing + resurfacing + nutrient infusion, suitable for Dullness from compromised skin barrier use during the pre-treatment priming phase + maintenance phase, gentle with minimal downtime.
Our physician’s 6-step standard pigmentation protocol
Consultation + subtype stratification
30 minute free consultation, Wood’s lamp dark-room examination, VISIA imaging for quantification, and medical history review.Identifying which type (or types) of pigmentation is present, before deciding on a plan.
4 weeks of pre-treatment (barrier repair + trigger removal)
Topical Cyspera + barrier-repair skincare + mineral SPF 50 · trigger removal (discontinuing photosensitizing medications / changing friction sources / acne control, etc.). This step directly determines the success or failure of all subsequent treatments.
Test spot(test spot)
Small test spot performed in a non-visible area below the cheekbone; reaction observed over 7–10 days.Essential step for Asian skin.
Active treatment phase (5–10 sessions, 1 every 4–6 weeks)
Subtype-stratified combinations of PicoSure Pro / IPL / Fotona / brightening mesotherapy. Immediate cold compress + barrier-repair skincare after every session.
Evaluation phase (8 weeks after the active treatment cycle ends)
Wood’s lamp Reassessment + VISIA quantitative comparison. We determine whether to enter the maintenance phase or add targeted treatment for a specific subtype.
Maintenance phase (1 session every 8–12 weeks, long-term)
Low-frequency, low-energy maintenance + topical maintenance + strict sun protection. The maintenance phase for pigmentation is even more important than the active treatment phase.
Treatment Timeline — How long until you see results?
| Subtype | Active treatment cycle | Initial visible results | Significant improvement | Maintenance cycle |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sunspots / Freckles | 1–3 session | After Session 1 | After session 2 | Every 12 weeks |
| Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH) | 4–6 session | After session 2 | After the 4th session | No long-term commitment required |
| Overall dull complexion | 5–8 session | After session 2 | After Session 5 | Every 8–12 weeks |
| Friction-induced pigmentation | 6–8 session | After session 3 | After session 6 | Every 12 weeks |
| Combined / multi-subtype | 8–12 session | After session 3 | After session 8 | Every 8–12 weeks |
Clinical note:When treating hyperpigmentation, it’s better to slow the pace than to push too fast. Lower energy and longer intervals per session actually produce better long-term outcomes and lower recurrence. Among our Nanjing patients, those who follow the structured maintenance protocol have a recurrence rate far below those who don’t.
Are you a candidate for pigmentation treatment? 2-minute self-assessment
✅ Ready to begin evaluation
- ✓Brown patches on the face / neck / joints persisting for more than 3 months
- ✓Significant brown marks left after acne has healed, not fading on their own
- ✓Overall skin tone noticeably darker than the rest of the body
- ✓Worsening rebound pigmentation after prior IPL — revision needed
- ✓Willing to undergo subtype diagnosis + trigger removal before energy-based treatment begins
- ✓Comfortable with the concept of multiple sessions + long-term maintenance
❌ Need to defer or resolve other issues first
- ✗Currently pregnant or breastfeeding
- ✗Sun exposure or unhealed sunburn within the past 4 weeks
- ✗Active facial eczema / dermatitis / severe acne flare (must be controlled first)
- ✗Currently on photosensitizing medications (isotretinoin within the past 6 months)
- ✗Expecting complete resolution in 1–2 sessions (a misaligned expectation)
- ✗Friction triggers not yet removed (clothing / habits)
Luowei Medical Hyperpigmentation Protocol vs. Standard MedSpa
- ✗Firing the device after a single glance, without subtype stratification
- ✗Treating all hyperpigmentation with a single IPL device
- ✗Uses energy parameters based on North American Caucasian templates
- ✗Skips the test spot and treats the full face on the first session
- ✗Procedures often performed by RMTs / aestheticians without physician consultation
- ✗Being told to ‘just do another session to cover it up’ after PIH rebound
- ✗No maintenance plan — treats once and sends you out the door
- ✓Mandatory triad: Wood’s lamp + VISIA + medical history review
- ✓4 core devices in combination + the optimal use case for each
- ✓Mandatory test spot + 4-week pre-treatment protocol
- ✓Personally consulted and treated by our physician
- ✓PIH Risk alerts + proactive treatment-pause and recovery protocol
- ✓6 Staged workflow including long-term maintenance plan
Why You Can Trust Luowei Medical Aesthetics Clinic’s Hyperpigmentation Content
Experience
Expertise Specialty
Authoritativeness Authority
Trustworthiness Trusted
All cases on this page are shared with signed Media Release Form authorization · Clinical data available on request
About the cost of pigmentation treatment
Pricing for hyperpigmentation can vary significantly between clinics — but the real cost driver isn’t the device itself. It’s who performs the assessment, who identifies the subtype, and who decides the pacing of each treatment. Hyperpigmentation is an umbrella condition with multiple subtypes, often requiring several devices working together and multiple follow-up adjustments. Complex cases (overlapping subtypes, recurrent rebound pigmentation, revision after failed treatment) are managed directly by our physician, and the pricing structure reflects that level of physician involvement. For stable cases that simply need maintenance, or for straightforward single-subtype presentations, our trained medical team can safely deliver treatment under our physician’s protocol, making care more accessible. Laser treatment… The price gap between treatments fundamentally reflects the clinical experience gap between physician-performed and technician-performed care (physician vs technician). For injectables, we insist the physician personally performs the procedure. Which protocol suits you is determined by your clinical condition, not by price — specific arrangements will be discussed during your consultation, alongside subtype stratification and trigger assessment.
- Payment is made at the clinic, after the consultation and before treatment begins
- Nothing is paid in advance, and no deposit is required to hold an appointment
- Cosmetic treatment is a self-pay item and is not covered by public medical insurance in China
- All first-visit clients receive a 30-minute Free Consultation & Assessment
Risks & Contraindications — what we must be clear about
What are the main risks?
1. PIH Rebound darkening(moderate risk in Asian skin) — significantly reduced through Low energy + test spot + 4-week Pre-treatment; 2. Temporary erythema / dryness and flaking (common, resolves in 1–5 days); 3. Pinprick sensation during treatment (tolerable, cold compress or topical anesthetic cream may be added); 4. Rare blistering / crusting (uncommon when protocol is appropriate); 5. Recurrence in certain Subtypes (friction-induced / hormone-induced) — cannot be prevented unless the Trigger is addressed.
Who Should Absolutely Not Be Treated?
Pregnancy, breastfeeding, oral isotretinoin within the past 6 months, unhealed sunburn within the past 4 weeks, active facial inflammation, unassessed severe keloid tendency, photosensitive conditions, and unrealistic expectations (believing 1–2 sessions can fully cure the condition) — in these cases, our physician will recommend postponing treatment or addressing the underlying issues first.
How do we reduce PIH risk during treatment?
5 core strategies: (1) Always perform a test spot; (2) Start at the lowest energy setting and titrate up gradually; (3) Maintain intervals of no less than 4 weeks; (4) Strict mineral SPF 50+ (with iron oxide) for 4 weeks before and after treatment; (5) Apply cold compress and barrier-repair skincare immediately after treatment; return for follow-up promptly if erythema persists beyond 7 days.
What does the informed consent form include?
Every client signs an Informed Consent form before their first treatment, covering: mechanism of treatment, potential adverse reactions and probabilities, alternative options, stop-treatment criteria, follow-up scheduling, and Media Release (voluntary). Every section is explained by our physician herself — not signed off by administrative staff.
Additional Comparison & Reference Data
| Distribution | Random distribution in sun-exposed areas, with sharp borders |
|---|---|
| Morphology | Discrete brown spots, round / oval |
| Symmetry | Asymmetry |
| Triggers | cumulative sun exposure + aging |
| First-line treatment | PicoSure Pro / Q-switched Single-session clearance |
| Distribution | concentrated on cheeks and nose bridge, beginning in childhood |
|---|---|
| Morphology | rice-grain sized, densely clustered |
| Symmetry | Symmetric |
| Triggers | Genetic + sun exposure, darkens in summer |
| First-line treatment | PicoSure Pro Visible results in one session |
Where the medical claims on this page come from
Everything above about Pigmentation rests on published evidence rather than on our own word. The sources below are the ones behind those statements: peer-reviewed papers indexed in PubMed, and guidance written for patients by dermatology academies and national health services. Read them before you decide — and bring any of them to your consultation.
- Peer-reviewedPostinflammatory hyperpigmentation: A comprehensive overview: Epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical presentation, and noninvasive assessment technique
- Peer-reviewedTreatment of Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation in Skin of Colour: A Systematic Review
- Peer-reviewedCommon Dermatologic Procedures and the Associated Complications Unique to Skin of Color
What these references can and cannot tell you. They describe what is known about the treatment itself — how well it tends to work, how long results last, and what can go wrong. They are not an assessment of this clinic, and no published study can tell you whether it suits your skin type, anatomy, or medical history. That judgement comes from the physician who examines you in person, and it may well be “not this one”.