What are potential effects on skin from laser safety hazards such as burns?

The correct answer highlights the potential for both hypopigmentation and hyperpigmentation as effects of skin exposure to laser safety hazards. When the skin is subjected to lasers, particularly in an unsafe manner, it can lead to alterations in pigment production.

Hypopigmentation occurs when the skin loses its pigment, resulting in lighter patches. This can happen when the skin cells that produce melanin are damaged, leading to a decrease in melanin production. Hyperpigmentation, on the other hand, is characterized by darkened areas on the skin, which can occur as a response to injury or inflammation caused by the laser. Following a laser burn, the body may react by producing more melanin in an effort to protect the skin, leading to these darker patches.

Understanding these effects is crucial for both proper laser usage protocols and post-procedure care, as they represent long-term changes to skin appearance that can affect patient satisfaction and self-esteem.