THE TRUTH ABOUT LASERS, PART 2: PIGMENT, MEMORY, AND WHY SPOTS RETURN

Pamela Bond
Oct 6
3 min read

Pigment has a mind of its own. It fades, it hides, and then — when you least expect it — it reappears. So what’s really happening when we use lasers to “erase” those stubborn dark spots? Let’s go beneath the surface to where your skin remembers everything.

In Part 1, we explored how lasers ignite the skin’s repair system to create “wound collagen. ”Now, in Part 2 of “The Truth About Lasers: What Your Skin Really Needs,” we’re focusing on pigmentation — what it is, how it forms, what lasers actually do to it, and why it often makes a comeback. If you’ve ever treated a spot that later reappeared, your skin isn’t being rebellious — it’s being protective.

“Your skin doesn’t hold grudges — it holds memories. Every spot tells a story of protection, not imperfection.”

What Is Pigment, Really?

Pigment (melanin) is your skin’s natural sunscreen — a built-in defense mechanism created by cells called melanocytes. When triggered by sunlight, heat, hormones, or inflammation, melanocytes produce extra melanin to shield your skin from perceived harm.

Types of Pigmentation:

Sun-induced (solar lentigines): brown sunspots from UV exposure.
Hormonal (melasma): patchy pigment linked to hormonal fluctuations.
Post-inflammatory (PIH): leftover discoloration after acne, eczema, or injury.

Each type has its own root cause, but all share one thing — your skin is trying to protect you.

What Lasers Do to Pigment

Lasers target pigment by using heat and light to shatter melanin clusters into microscopic fragments. These fragments are then absorbed and cleared by your lymphatic system — giving the appearance of clearer skin. But there’s a catch: While the pigment particles are gone, your melanocytes remain alive and sensitive. If they’re triggered again — by UV, hormones, or inflammation — they can recreate new pigment in the exact same area. So, no — the old pigment isn’t “coming back. ” Your skin is simply replaying its protective pattern.

Why Pigment Returns

Sun Exposure: even brief or indirect UV exposure reactivates melanin.
Heat & Inflammation: saunas, workouts, even hot yoga can reignite pigment.
Hormones: shifts during pregnancy, menopause, or birth control.
Barrier Stress: harsh peels or lasers themselves can trigger rebound pigment.

This is why you may feel caught in a loop: clear → glow → return. It’s not failure — it’s biology.

The Holistic Approach

The goal isn’t just to erase pigment — it’s to calm and retrain the skin so it doesn’t overreact.That means working with your body’s intelligence instead of fighting it.

I pair advanced treatments with:

LED and mitochondrial support (to repair without trauma). Learn more about the benefits of red and near-infrared light therapy.
Antioxidant-rich serums (to prevent oxidative triggers)
Daily SPF and gentle enzymes (to maintain clarity)
Heart-focused breathing (to calm the nervous system — stress affects pigment, too!)
Discover how emotional balance supports skin health with HeartMath Institute.

Because when your body feels safe, your skin does too.

Soulful Extras

Free Gift: Heart-Focused Breathing® Technique Download — align your skin and nervous system through daily coherence. Available in the Soul Freebies section of my website.
https://www.pamelabond.com/soulful-downloads-resources

Reflection Prompt: “Where in my life am I trying to ‘erase’ instead of understand?” Write, breathe, and notice what your skin — and soul — are ready to release.

Your pigment isn’t a flaw to be burned away — it’s a messenger asking for balance. When you choose healing over hiding, your radiance becomes effortless. Lasers may clear what’s visible, but only presence, calm, and cellular health create lasting light.

Love, Pamela💜