15% TCA peel vs. IPL for hyperpigmentation on cheeks?

Is one treatment (TCA peel or IPL) more effective than the other for treating hyperpigmentation? I was told 3-4 peels would be sufficient, but I'm wondering if laser is any better.

4 answers to “15% TCA peel vs. IPL for...”

A: find a competant provider and go with their advice

John E. Gross, MD

It is so hard to definitively say whether TCA peels or IPL treatments would work better for you. Hyperpigmentation is frequently difficult to treat ,and plan on maintaining the result with good medical grade skin care, sun screen use and sun avoidance as much as possible.   I have seen peels and skin care... more

A: Chemical peels are probably the most consistent for good results

David Hansen, MD

Hyperpigmentation of the cheeks is a difficult and frustrating problem.   Several light chem peels such as Jessner's solution or 10-15% TCA do well in most cases.  Plan on 3-6 peels at every 2-4 week intervals @$250-350 each.  IPLs help more than lasers as a rule but both are unpredictable... more

A: Depends on Practioner

Arnold R. Oppenheim, MD

 Both the 15% TCA peel and an IPL can give you a good end result. As someone who has utlized both, I am a bit more confident in the results of the IPL. As with many procedures, both of these are less risky the fairer the skin. In fact those with Fitzpatrick Type 5 and above skin should not have an IPL... more

A: IPL or 15% TCA peels for hyperpigmentation can produce similar results

Scott Trimas, MD

IPL or 15% TCA peels for hyperpigmentation can produce similar results. Both treatments are about as effective for hyperpigmentation. However, if it is a diffuse hyperpigmentation the IPL might be a better treatment since there will be less downtime. However, in some cases where an IPL does not work, a... more

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