Skin of Colour
Darker skin has more active pigment cells, so it is more likely to darken after inflammation, and some people form raised scars more easily. Dr. Anna adjusts every plan, from laser settings to skincare, to lower those risks while still treating the concern.
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Skin Types
Fitzpatrick IV–VI
First Step
Skin-type assessment
Laser Approach
Adjusted settings
Key Risk
Pigment change
Why It Differs
Lasers and light work by heating a target, and melanin absorbs that energy. In darker skin, more energy is taken up by the surface pigment, which raises the risk of burns and of dark or light patches afterwards. Any inflammation, from acne to a strong peel, can also leave marks that last for months.
Fitzpatrick skin types IV to VI, from olive and light brown to deep brown skin, are the ones that need these adjustments most.
Common Concerns
These are the concerns patients with darker skin most often bring to the clinic. Each links to the page that covers its treatment.
Lasers & Devices
Suitability depends on your exact skin type, the concern and recent sun exposure, so this is a general guide, not a decision. A test spot may be suggested before a full session.
| Device | Used for | Notes for darker skin |
|---|---|---|
| Pico Genesis | Pigmentation, melasma, acne marks | Commonly used, at adjusted settings |
| MOXI | Tone, texture, early ageing | Commonly used, at adjusted settings |
| Morpheus8 | Scars, texture, tightening | Commonly used; heat is delivered below the surface |
| HALO | Tone, texture, sun damage | Used with adjusted settings and careful preparation |
| Er:YAG | Scars, resurfacing | Used with extra caution; higher risk of pigment change |
| BBL | Sun spots, redness | Often not the first choice; assessed case by case |
Preparation
Preparation lowers the chance of dark marks after treatment. Dr. Anna will tell you which of these apply to you.
Risks & Side Effects
The main risk is a change in skin colour. Most changes fade, but some can last.
Dark marks after treatment or inflammation; usually fade over weeks to months.
Can follow laser or strong peels; may be long-lasting.
In people prone to keloids; procedures are chosen with this in mind.
Reduced by correct settings and no recent tan.
Good to Know
Often yes. Several lasers can be used on brown skin with adjusted settings and preparation. Dr. Anna checks your skin type and recent sun exposure first, and may suggest a test spot.
It can cause temporary darkening, especially if settings are too strong or the skin is tanned. Careful settings, preparation and sun protection lower this risk; most darkening fades over weeks to months.
Pico Genesis, a picosecond laser, is commonly used for pigmentation and melasma on darker skin, usually alongside prescription skincare.
First by controlling active acne, because new spots leave new marks. Then prescription creams, and sometimes gentle laser or peels, fade the marks over a few months.
Yes. A recent tan raises the risk of burns and pigment change, so avoid strong sun and tanning for at least 4 weeks before laser and use SPF 50 daily.
Book a consultation with Dr. Anna for a plan built around your skin.
This information is provided for general educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Individual results and suitability vary — a personalised assessment with Dr. Anna is required before any treatment.
Dr. Anna Lisniak, Specialist Dermatologist (DHA licence 77231337-006). Last updated 25 October 2026.