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Is Laser Treatment Effective For Dark Spots Resulting From Lichen Planus?
Question: Sir, i am suffering form lichen planus since 4 years. The marks are not going. Is there any laser treatment for marks
Brief Answer:
Q Switched Nd:YAG Laser can be effective for stubborn pigmentation
Detailed Answer:
Hello. Thank you for writing to us
I have taken note of your query and I understand your concern regarding the dark spots/ pigmentation resulting from lichen planus.
Pigmentation resulting from lichen planus is deep, therefore it takes a longer time to resolve.
It is at dermal level and is due to release of melanin into dermis as a result of damage to basal layer of epidermis that accompanies lichen planus.
Treatment for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation in lichen planus is commonly by mid-potent topical steroids i.e mometasone furoate 0.1% cream and they usually produce an improvement, though gradually and it may take weeks to months of treatment to produce a satisfactory improvement
Though, Laser is not a commonly used treatment for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation due to lichen planus probably due to widespread/ extensive lesions and also because of its expense, however, 'Q-Switched Nd:YAG Laser' which is commonly used for tattoo removal should also be effective for hyperpigmentation due to lichen planus, particularly for those limited areas of stubborn pigmentation which the patient is cosmetically conscious about.
Laser treatment would be costly. I suggest that you visit a dermatologist in your vicinity and inquire about the same.
Regards
Q Switched Nd:YAG Laser can be effective for stubborn pigmentation
Detailed Answer:
Hello. Thank you for writing to us
I have taken note of your query and I understand your concern regarding the dark spots/ pigmentation resulting from lichen planus.
Pigmentation resulting from lichen planus is deep, therefore it takes a longer time to resolve.
It is at dermal level and is due to release of melanin into dermis as a result of damage to basal layer of epidermis that accompanies lichen planus.
Treatment for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation in lichen planus is commonly by mid-potent topical steroids i.e mometasone furoate 0.1% cream and they usually produce an improvement, though gradually and it may take weeks to months of treatment to produce a satisfactory improvement
Though, Laser is not a commonly used treatment for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation due to lichen planus probably due to widespread/ extensive lesions and also because of its expense, however, 'Q-Switched Nd:YAG Laser' which is commonly used for tattoo removal should also be effective for hyperpigmentation due to lichen planus, particularly for those limited areas of stubborn pigmentation which the patient is cosmetically conscious about.
Laser treatment would be costly. I suggest that you visit a dermatologist in your vicinity and inquire about the same.
Regards
Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Raju A.T
Answered by
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