— Primary
Aerolase Neo Laser.
The 650-microsecond Nd:YAG laser, FDA-cleared for benign pigmented lesions on all Fitzpatrick skin types. The same device addresses both pigmentation and the underlying acne when present.
Learn about Aerolase— Gallery / Pigmentation / Post-Acne Pigmentation
The breakouts are gone. The marks shouldn't stay.
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation — the dark marks left behind after acne clears — can outlast the breakouts by months or years, especially in melanin-rich skin. The Aerolase Neo's short pulse helps fade those marks without aggravating the skin that just calmed down.
3–6Typical Sessions
AllSkin Tones I–VI
Min.Typical Downtime
Photos courtesy of Aerolase® — individual results vary.
— Our Approach
Aftermath, gently addressed.
Post-acne marks need a particularly cautious approach — the same skin that responded with inflammation last time can respond again if pushed.
— The Technology
650 microseconds of restraint.
The Aerolase Neo's 650-microsecond pulse is shorter than the skin's thermal relaxation time. Energy targets pigment quickly, then exits — minimizing the bulk heating that can re-trigger inflammation in acne-prone skin.
It's contactless. No cooling gel, no anesthetic, no surface contact — and the same device protocols can address active acne when present, in coordination with your treatment plan.
— What It May Help
Marks, gently lifted.
- May reduce the appearance of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
- Supports more even tone in areas previously affected by acne
- FDA-cleared for benign pigmented lesions on Fitzpatrick skin types I–VI
- Lower thermal trauma profile than many alternative pigment treatments
- Especially relevant for darker skin tones where PIH is more common
- Pairs well with prescription acne regimens and SPF
— Recommended Treatments
Built around your plan.
Post-acne marks fade fastest when treated as a system: laser, supportive topicals, and ongoing acne control.
— Adjunctive
Targeted topicals.
PCA Skin and EltaMD regimens with brightening ingredients that support pigment fading and help prevent new marks from forming.
Learn about PCA Peels— Maintenance
Ongoing acne care.
Keeping breakouts under control is the single most reliable way to prevent new PIH. We'll coordinate with your existing acne regimen or help you build one.
Learn about Facials— What to Expect
A clear path.
PIH fades over time. The right plan accelerates the process while protecting the skin from new marks.
01
— Consultation
Free assessment.
Your esthetician reviews your skin, history, medications, and goals. You'll leave with a treatment plan, an honest timeline, and clear pricing — no pressure.
02
— Treatment
In-office sessions.
Each Aerolase session typically runs 20–30 minutes. The treatment is contactless and most clients return to their day right after, with little to no downtime.
03
— Series
Three to six visits.
Sessions are spaced 2–4 weeks apart. Many clients see progressive lightening of marks across the series, with continued fading for weeks after the final visit.
04
— Maintenance
Stay protected.
Daily SPF, ongoing acne management, and gentle home care help prevent new PIH from forming. Periodic touch-up sessions support long-term results.
— Common Questions
Good questions. Simple answers.
If you don't see your question here, our team is happy to answer it during your free consultation.
Is the treatment safe for darker skin tones?
The Aerolase Neo is FDA-cleared for use on all Fitzpatrick skin types (I–VI), including melanin-rich skin. Its short 650-microsecond pulse is designed to minimize the heat-related side effects that can be a concern with some traditional treatments. Any treatment risks specific to your skin will be reviewed during your complimentary consultation.
Will the marks go away on their own?
PIH does fade naturally over time, but the process can take months or even years — especially in darker skin tones. Laser treatment can accelerate the fading meaningfully.
Can the laser also treat active acne at the same time?
The Aerolase Neo is FDA-cleared for acne treatment as well, and the same protocol often addresses both concerns. Your provider will tailor the plan to your skin's current state.
Does the treatment hurt?
Most clients describe the sensation as a series of brief, warm pulses. The treatment is contactless and doesn't typically require numbing, though sensitivity varies. If you have particularly sensitive skin, let your provider know during the consultation and they'll adjust the protocol.
How do I prevent new marks?
Keeping acne controlled is the single most important factor. Avoid picking at active breakouts, use daily SPF, and follow a routine that minimizes inflammation. Your consultation will include specific guidance.
Can I use this with my prescription acne medication?
Most prescription acne regimens are compatible. Some topicals (like tretinoin) may require timing adjustments around your sessions — your esthetician will give you specific guidance.
Ready when you are.
Book your free consultation — we'll match the right treatment plan to your skin, your goals, and your timeline. No deposit. No commitment.
— Explore More
See what else we treat.
Browse the full gallery — every condition we work with, with real before-and-after results from actual patients.
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Important information. Individual results vary.
Photographs shown are of actual patients who have provided written authorization for the use of their images. Results depicted are individual outcomes and are not a guarantee or prediction of any particular result for any other person. Clinical outcomes depend on a number of factors including skin condition, treatment adherence, individual response, and ongoing care. No treatment is risk-free; the potential benefits, side effects, and any treatment-specific risks will be reviewed with you in detail during your complimentary consultation.
Skin R&R treatments are performed by licensed providers operating under appropriate medical supervision. Provider credentials are available on request and at each location. The Aerolase Neo® is an FDA-cleared 650-microsecond 1064 nm Nd:YAG laser; cleared indications relevant to this page include the treatment of benign pigmented lesions on Fitzpatrick skin types I–VI. Any discussion of use beyond cleared indications will occur during your consultation. Some patients pictured may have received complimentary or reduced-cost treatment in exchange for the use of their photographs.
Photos courtesy of Aerolase® where indicated and used with permission. © Skin R&R. Not medical advice. For medical concerns, consult a qualified provider.