Best chemical peel for sun damage

I'm concerned about how to get rid of sun damage and dark brown spots on my face. I'm 37, caucasian and have medium skin pigment and tone.

Can you please advise which chemical peel (if any) would work best for these issues? What concentration is necessary for the chemical peel to be effective?

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8 answers to “Best chemical peel for sun damage”

A: You need an examination to figure this out

John P. Di Saia, MD

Hello, The pigment change you describe would probably be ideal for a TCA peel although lighter peels may also lighten it somewhat. Depending upon your skin type and preferences in length of recovery and desire for (or against) anesthesia, TCA would probably be your best bet.

A: Chemical peel ideal choice for hyperpigmentation and sun damage

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD

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... more

A: A multiple approach plan is likely the best.

David Shafer, MD

Bojana, To help improve your skin, it is best to start with prevention with SPF sun block and moisturizers for your skin. The next step is to start with good skin hygiene and a maintenance program. This could include Retin-A and possibly Hydroquinone. The next step would be intervention with chemical peels... more

A: Multiple TCA peels work wonders !

David Hansen, MD

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... more

A: There is no generic answer to this question.

Mary Lupo, MD

The most important decision for you is not which peel, but which doctor. There are so many great options to improve the appearance of sun-damaged skin, that it is impossible to recommend just one. It is important for the doctor to choose the right peel or laser for your individual needs, skin type and... more

A: Effective skin care program may help without peel

Sutton Graham II, MD

I would not limit your choices to a chemical peel.  Various peels can be effective, but their results are often improved by starting first with an effective prescription-grade skin care treatment program. Skin preparation should entail daily application for about 4-8 weeks.  Use products that... more

A: Sun damage and the treatments

Robert M. Freund, MD

At Home treatments for sundamage; 1- Zinc oxide sunblock - I like EltaMD for prevention. 2- Hydroquinone 4% lotion or creams as a bleaching agent for the skin. 3-Retin-a for dispersion of melanin granules, thus reduces the chance of further sunspot formation. Doctors office treatments; 1- Alpha Hydroxy acid... more

A: Accurate diagnosis is essential for good results from Chemical peels for photodamage

Jeffrey Zwiren, MD

A thorough evaluation is essential for a good result from a chemcial peel for photodamage.  Visual examination of the skin followed by an UV light examination can determine the nature and depth of your photodamage.  We also use the Fitzpatrick scale to determine your existing skin tone.  In my... more

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