"Laser" is not one treatment. Each laser does a different job – removing hair, lightening pigment, smoothing scars or fading tattoos. At VK Allure Dermaclinic, our dermatologist first finds out what your skin problem really is, and then chooses the laser. This page explains how we match the laser to the problem, so you know what to ask at your consultation.
Last updated: 28 October 2026 · VK Allure Dermaclinic, Kilpauk, ECR-Uthandi & Ambattur, Chennai
A laser sends light of a set wavelength into the skin. Each wavelength is absorbed by one target – hair pigment, skin pigment, tattoo ink, water in scar tissue or oil. That is why one laser cannot treat everything. We pick the laser after we diagnose your problem and check your skin type.
Laser is not advised during pregnancy, on active infection or cold sores, on freshly tanned skin, or soon after isotretinoin. Tell us about any medicines, keloid tendency or past pigment changes after treatment.
| Session time | About 15 to 60 minutes, depending on the area |
|---|---|
| Typical sessions | A series, not one – depends on the laser and problem |
| Downtime | None to about a week, depending on the laser |
| When results show | Gradually, over weeks to months |
| Who decides | Our dermatologist, after a skin assessment |
This is the simple chart we use when patients ask "which laser do I need?". Click any treatment to read the full page.
| Your concern | Laser we usually consider | Read more |
|---|---|---|
| Unwanted hair on face, underarms, arms, legs or body | Laser hair reduction | Laser hair removal in Chennai |
| Upper lip, chin and jawline hair in women | Laser hair reduction for the face | Facial hair reduction |
| Tan, uneven tone, dark spots, melasma | Low-energy Q-switched laser toning | Laser toning for pigmentation, Q-switch laser |
| Pitted acne scars, rough texture | CO2 fractional laser | CO2 fractional laser, laser for acne scars |
| Oily skin, open pores, dullness | Carbon laser facial | Carbon laser facial |
| Unwanted tattoo | Q-switched laser for tattoo ink | Laser tattoo removal |
| Thinning hair on the scalp | Low level laser therapy, usually with other hair treatments | Low level laser therapy |
| Fine lines and uneven texture | Resurfacing, chosen after assessment | Skin resurfacing |
Some problems need more than a laser. Melasma, for example, needs creams and strict sunscreen too – see pigmentation treatment on face. Deep acne scars often need a mix of methods – see acne scar treatment.
There is no single best laser for the face. The right one depends on the problem. For tan and dark spots we usually use laser toning; for pitted acne scars, a fractional CO2 laser; for oily skin and open pores, a carbon laser facial; and for facial hair, laser hair reduction. We decide after examining your skin.
Yes, when the laser and settings are chosen for your skin type. Brown skin has more melanin, so it reacts more easily with dark or light patches after laser. We use longer wavelengths and gentler settings for Indian skin, do a test spot when needed, and ask you to avoid sun before and after each session.
Studies on darker skin show that lasers work, but the risk of pigment changes is higher than in fair skin. Longer-wavelength lasers such as the 1064 nm Nd:YAG are generally considered safer for skin types IV to VI. [CHECK] This is why we go slowly, and why a session should never be done on freshly tanned skin.
Most people only get redness, warmth or mild swelling that settles in hours to a few days. Less often, skin can turn darker or lighter for some weeks, especially in brown skin or after sun exposure. Burns, blisters and scarring are rare and are much less likely with correct settings and a trained doctor.
Almost every laser treatment works as a series. Laser toning for tan and marks usually needs about 4 to 6 sessions; hair reduction and tattoo removal need more, spaced weeks apart. Melasma and deep scars take longer. We give you a range at the first visit and review it as your skin responds.
The gap between sessions also differs. Toning is usually two to four weeks apart. Hair reduction follows the hair growth cycle, so the gaps get longer as you go. Resurfacing lasers need the skin to heal fully before the next sitting. [CHECK]
Sun protection matters most. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen every morning and reapply when outdoors, even on cloudy monsoon days. Avoid scrubs, peels, waxing and steam for a few days. Keep the skin moisturised. Call us if you notice blisters, crusting that is spreading, or a dark patch that does not settle.
Chennai heat and sweat can irritate freshly treated skin. We suggest gentle cleansing, light gel moisturisers and avoiding the beach and two-wheeler rides without a face cover for the first few days.
Ask who does the assessment and who supervises the session, whether they treat Indian skin types regularly, and what they will do if you get a reaction. We have written a separate checklist: how to choose a skin and laser clinic in Chennai. You can also read about laser hair removal for dark skin and meet our dermatologist in Chennai.
Not sure which laser you need?
Send us a clear photo on WhatsApp or book a consultation at Kilpauk, ECR Uthandi or Ambattur. Our dermatologist will tell you honestly if laser is the right option for you.
WhatsApp +91 96009 58060 Call NowSources: Nonablative fractional laser resurfacing in skin of colour – review (2017); Lasers in darker skin – Indian Journal of Dermatology review; American Academy of Dermatology – laser hair removal FAQs.
There is no single best laser for the face. The right one depends on the problem. For tan and dark spots we usually use laser toning; for pitted acne scars, a fractional CO2 laser; for oily skin and open pores, a carbon laser facial; and for facial hair, laser hair reduction. We decide after examining your skin.
Yes, when the laser and settings suit your skin type. Brown skin is more likely to get temporary dark or light patches, so we use gentler settings, test spots when needed and strict sun protection.
Mild redness and warmth are common and settle in hours to days. Temporary darkening or lightening can happen, mostly after sun exposure. Burns and scars are rare with correct settings.
Most people describe it as a snapping or warm feeling. For stronger lasers such as CO2 we apply a numbing cream first. Laser toning and hair reduction are usually well tolerated.
It depends on the laser and the problem. Laser toning for tan and marks usually needs about 4 to 6 sessions. Hair reduction, tattoo removal, melasma and deep scars need more. We give you a range after assessment.
Laser gives a long-term reduction in hair, not a guarantee that every hair is gone forever. Some fine hair can return, and a few maintenance sessions may be needed, especially with hormonal hair growth.
Laser can lighten tan, spots and marks well, but melasma tends to come back with sun and hormones. We combine laser with creams and sunscreen and plan maintenance.
Yes, but protect your skin. Use sunscreen, a cap or umbrella and avoid long sun exposure for the first one to two weeks, especially after toning or resurfacing.
We usually postpone most laser treatments until after pregnancy and breastfeeding. Tell us if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy.
Book a skin assessment. Our dermatologist will look at your concern, skin type and history, and tell you which laser – if any – suits you. You can also send a photo on WhatsApp first.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Lokeshwari
Dermatology Specialist, lead medical reviewer at VK Allure Dermaclinic, Kilpauk, ECR Uthandi and Ambattur, Chennai.
This laser treatment information is written by our clinical team and medically reviewed by Dr. Lokeshwari, Dermatology Specialist and lead medical reviewer at VK Allure Dermaclinic. Last reviewed: . Read our editorial policy.
Medical disclaimer: This page is for general education and is not a substitute for a personal medical consultation. Results vary from person to person. Please consult our dermatologist before starting any procedure.
