Using a laser to reduce post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation

Efficacy and Safety of the Fractionated 1927-nm Non Ablative Thulium Laser in Treating Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation in Skin Phototypes IV-VI

NA · Henry Ford Health System · NCT06149780

This study is testing whether a special laser treatment can help reduce dark spots on the skin caused by inflammation in people with darker skin types.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment15 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorHenry Ford Health System (other)
Locations1 site (Detroit, Michigan)
Trial IDNCT06149780 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effectiveness of a fractionated 1927-nm non-ablative thulium laser in reducing post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) in patients with skin types IV-VI. Participants will undergo three monthly laser treatment sessions, and the study will also evaluate the efficacy of a topical steroid ointment in managing PIH. Assessments will include visual examinations, photography, and colorimetry, with optional biopsies taken at various time points to analyze histological and molecular changes. The study aims to provide a validated model for understanding and treating PIH.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older with skin phototypes IV-VI who have not used certain medications for pigmentary abnormalities prior to the study.

Not a fit: Patients with existing skin conditions that obscure study results, such as dyspigmentation or tattoos, will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this treatment could significantly improve the appearance of skin affected by post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of using a 1927-nm laser for PIH is relatively novel, similar laser treatments have shown promise in other studies.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Patient age 18 and older
* Patient with skin phototypes IV-VI
* Patient able to understand requirements of the study and risks involved
* Patient able to sign a consent form
* Patient to have discontinued all oral medications used to treat pigmentary abnormalities and all topical medications, except for sunscreen, used to treat pigmentary abnormalities on the buttocks one month prior to treatment

Exclusion Criteria:

* A patient who has skin dyspigmentation, birth marks, tattoos, or other skin findings at baseline on either buttock that may obscure study results
* A patient who is lactating, pregnant, or planning to become pregnant

Where this trial is running

Detroit, Michigan

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Healthy

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.