If you’ve ever dealt with acne, chances are you’re familiar with the frustrating dark marks it can leave behind. This discoloration is called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), and it tends to stick around long after a breakout fades.
At Qazi Cosmetic Center in Orange County, we see this every day. And one of the most effective tools in our arsenal is the Pico Laser. Designed to treat pigment without damaging the skin, it’s safe for all Fitzpatrick types and requires little to no downtime.
What Is PIH and Why Is It So Stubborn?
PIH is caused by inflammation that triggers excess melanin production. This can happen after acne, eczema, cuts, burns, or any kind of trauma to the skin. While it isn’t a scar, it can linger for months or even years if left untreated.
Why does PIH hang on so long? A few reasons:
- Inflammation goes deep, even when the skin looks healed.
- UV exposure darkens the pigment further.
- It can affect deeper layers in medium to deeper skin tones.
Topicals can help, but they often take months and come with irritation or sun sensitivity. That’s where Pico Laser technology makes a real difference.
How the Pico Laser Works on PIH
The Pico Laser delivers ultra-short pulses of energy (picoseconds) to break up pigment clusters into smaller particles. Your body then naturally clears them away through the lymphatic system.
But here’s the best part:
- It doesn’t heat the skin like traditional lasers, so there’s less risk of rebound pigmentation.
- It’s gentle but effective on all skin tones.
- No downtime for most patients.
At Qazi Cosmetic Center, we customize the treatment depth and strength depending on the severity of your PIH, your skin tone, and your skin's sensitivity.
Real Results Without the Risk
Unlike lasers that ablate or burn the skin, Pico treatments target pigment only. That means less trauma, lower risk of post-treatment pigmentation, and a quicker return to your daily routine.
Here are just a few of the benefits:
- Treats brown spots, PIH, and even melasma
- Safe for all Fitzpatrick skin types
- Great for textured and sensitive skin
- Minimal to no downtime
What to Expect From Your Pico Treatment
Your experience at Qazi Cosmetic Center will feel more like a tailored skincare session than a clinical procedure. Here’s what the process looks like:
- Consultation: We evaluate your skin and confirm that PIH (not scarring or melasma) is your main concern.
- Prep: No makeup. SPF use is important both before and after.
- Treatment: A handheld laser device delivers pulses that feel like small snaps on the skin.
- Aftercare: Mild redness may occur but fades within hours. You’ll leave with a custom skincare plan.
Most patients see results after just a few sessions, and improvement continues over time.
Dealing With Active Acne Too? Here’s Where Accure Laser Comes In
Sometimes, PIH keeps coming back because breakouts haven’t stopped. If that’s the case, we often combine Pico treatments with the Accure Laser, a new laser that regulates oil production to prevent acne at the root.
Accure is safe for all skin tones, requires no downtime, and helps:
- Clear active breakouts
- Prevent future acne
- Reduce oil and shine
When we stop the acne cycle, we stop new dark marks from forming.
Virtual Consultations & Travel-Friendly Care
We make things easy for patients who don’t live in California. In fact, over 60% of our patients travel to Qazi Cosmetic Center from out of state. Here's how we help:
- Book online by clicking here — no need to call
- Virtual consultations with Dr. Qazi
- Located 5 minutes from John Wayne Airport
- Same-day treatments available
Whether you fly in or consult from your phone, we’ll guide you every step of the way.
Why Choose Qazi Cosmetic Center for PIH?
We specialize in treating darker skin tones and pigmentation issues. Our customized laser settings and blended treatment protocols are:
- Safe for Fitzpatrick Types I through VI
- Tailored to each patient’s skin tone and history
- Designed to minimize risk and maximize results
We also offer financing plans through Cherry, CareCredit, Alpheon, and Affirm, making quality care more accessible.
Clearer Skin Starts Below the Surface
PIH may not be permanent, but it can feel that way when nothing seems to work. The Pico Laser finally gives us a tool that targets pigment safely and effectively—without the risk of making things worse.
And when combined with long-term acne prevention like the Accure Laser, we can help your skin look better, feel healthier, and stay that way.
Call or text (949)-336-7293 or book your consultation here.
