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At Home Chemical Peel for Dark Skin?

asked 2 years ago by brownskin in Washington
Latest answer by Philip Young, MD
Question viewed 575 times
Tags: body, dark, scar, skin

I have OCD and I pick at my skin, causing major scars all over my body. I want to try an at-home chemical peel, but have been told that because I have dark skin, those may not be safe. Any advice? Please help!

3 answers to At Home Chemical Peel for Dark Skin?

+1

Chemical Peels can darken dark skin types

Chemical Peels (TCA, trichloroacetic acid, Jessners, salicylic, retinoic, lactic acid, phenol, rescorcinal) can cause dark skin to darken even more. Chemical peels and any surface type of surgery / procedures including dermabrasion, peels, and laser resurfacing is risky with dark skin. They can cause hypopigmentation and hyperpigmentation both of which can be very noticeable. You can white splotches like vitiligo and dark patches with any of the above procedures. Having someone with... more
Philip Young, MD

Bellevue Facial Plastic Surgeon
+1

Chemical Peels for Darker Skin Types

If you have darker skin, you should be careful with any resurfacing treatment you use. Chemical peels can be the safest but they are really best when delivered by someone who understands darker skin and treats these patients on a regular bases. The risk is hyperpigmentation, which means darkening the skin. Even though this is often temporary, it can be hard on patients. There are a variety of excellent chemical peel options for darker skin types; however, we precondition the skin for 8... more
Amir M. Karam, MD

San Diego Facial Plastic Surgeon
+1

Get professional help on the chemical peel

Hello, If  you have dark skin, chemical peels can be tricky. You should get some professional help with this so you'll get the best possible results.
John P. Di Saia, MD

Orange Plastic Surgeon

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