Chemical peel ideal choice for hyperpigmentation and sun damage

Assessment of patients preoperatively is crucial to the success of a chemical peel.  Although a clinical examination is necessary for individualized recommendations, Caucasian patients with melasma and sun damage are candidates for a medium depth TCA peel.

I routinely perform chemical peels in my office and have found them to be effective with a high safety profile.  Preoperatively, I instruct patients to utilize a specific and accelerated skin protocol to ensure that the risks of the chemical peels are minimiized.

For the average 37 yr old caucasian with medium complexion and  with sun spots and sun damage, I recommend 1 or 2 chemical peels of the combination Jessner's solution plus 35% TCA given at 2-4 week intervals.   The cost is roughly $1000-1,500 each and does wonders for the skin although you do look bad for about a week or so.  Some patients prefer no down time and therefore will do 5-6 lighter Jessner's solution plus 10% TCA peels at 2 week intervals at a cost of roughly $350 each.  Good after-care is very important with use of a steroid lotion such as desowen lotion twice a day for 2 weeks and a combination bleaching cream with retin A after 1-2 weeks at night and SPF sunscreen in the morning.

Once you get your skin looking great then don't forget to do a light one every 6 months as a refresher to keep your skin looking refreshed.

Sincerely,

David Hansen,MD

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