Body Toning
Body Toning for Frictional Hyperpigmentation (Underarm / Elbow)
A body pigmentation treatment that repeatedly applies low-power toning to areas darkened by friction, such as the underarms, elbows and knees, gradually fading built-up melanin.
What is it?
It uses the same low-power 1064nm approach as facial laser toning. Areas exposed to repeated friction and pressure produce more melanin from chronic irritation, and the outer skin layer thickens, making them look darker. Repeated low-power laser passes break up the deposited melanin into tiny particles so the body can clear it. The body clears pigment and recovers more slowly than the face, so more sessions are needed, and the friction habits behind it must be corrected too to prevent the pigment from coming back.
Who it's for
- Underarm pigmentation (from shaving/hair removal irritation and friction)
- Darkened areas on elbows and knees
- Friction-related and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) areas in general
Before treatment
- Avoid shaving, waxing, body scrubbing and other irritation on the area for a few days before treatment
- Postponement may be considered after recent tanning or sun exposure
- Consult us beforehand if you have active folliculitis, eczema or other skin conditions
- Remove deodorant and body lotion before treatment
After treatment
- Protect the treated area from the sun (sunscreen on exposed areas; no tanning on covered areas either)
- Reducing friction is the key aftercare: minimize tight clothing, body scrubbing and frequent shaving
- Moisturize well to restore the skin barrier (dryness makes pigmentation worse)
- Skip saunas, intense workouts and alcohol on the day of treatment
- About pigment rebound: if irritation and friction continue, the darkening can come back
Good to know
- Redness and a stinging sensation right after treatment
- Too much stimulation can paradoxically cause post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). The body heals especially slowly, so extra care is needed
- Rarely, small spots of lighter skin (hypopigmentation) can appear if treatment is overdone
- Results aren't instant. They build up over sessions, so stopping partway limits the effect
Pairs well with
Can be combined with exfoliation and skin barrier care (body peels, moisturizing care)
"Half the cause of darkening is friction, so it's laser plus habit changes as a set" "These areas improve more slowly than the face, so you need a session plan" "Adding hair removal cuts out shaving irritation, one of the root causes" "Almost no downtime; you can get right back to your day" "Without moisturizing and reducing friction, the skin can darken again"
Results and recovery time vary depending on your skin. Pricing and the exact number of sessions will be explained during your consultation after diagnosis. Written based on in-clinic materials as of October 2026.