How Long Will PIH Last After TCA Peel?

asked 2 years ago by xjc5151x in San diego
Latest answer by Joseph Serota, MD
Question viewed 1,560 times
Tags: age 18-24, male, hispanic, PIH, skin

I had a 40% TCA peel done by my dermatologist that left my face with Post inflammatory hyperpigmentation (all over my face) and prolonged redness.

I look really bad, and I am just wondering what is the longest amount of time I can expect to look like this (it has been 3 weeks since my peel)? I am a 21 year old male, with light brown hispanic skin.

5 answers to How Long Will PIH Last After TCA Peel?

This must be treated quickly

PIH is a common complication for type III skin like hispanic skin. To avoid it, I usually peel such patients in the winter months. I recommend at least a 2 week pre-treatment with Triluma nightly, a high SPF daily (rain or shine) and immediately after the peel is healed, return to the Triluma. If there is any persisting redness at 2 weeks, it needs to be addressed quickly with a corticosteroid cream for 2 weeks to reduce the inflammation quickly before the pigmentation starts. Once PIH... more

Mary Lupo, MD
New Orleans Dermatologist

PIH after TCA peel

It has only been 3 weeks, so you are still healing. Hispanic skin is prone to hyperpigmentation. You should have pre-treated with a retinol/hydroquinone blend for at least 2 weeks prior to the 40% TCA peel, which may have prevented it in the first place. Now that you have done the chemical peel and experiencing "post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation" the best option for you right now is to wait a couple more weeks to complete the healing process. Wear a broad spectrum sunscreen... more

Joseph Serota, MD
Denver Plastic Surgeon

TCA follow-up treatment

I would recommend a follow up treatment such as a microderm with a 10% tca, followed by the Obagi skin care system or tri-luma. With ethinic skin, you almost always have to follow up with some sort of pigment correcting skin care products. Never leave home without SPF.

Lee Robinson, MD
Portland Facial Plastic Surgeon

TCA peels

You are very early now. The best time to start treatment of the hyperpigmentation. A good Skin care Like the OBAJI skin care and frequent light chemical peels. You may also try Cosmelan mask and creams.

Samir Shureih, MD
Baltimore Plastic Surgeon

Hyperpigmentation can take months to resolve

Hyperpigmentation needs to be treated with various bleaching creams and can take many months to resolve. I would seek advice from a dermatologist in your area. Good luck. Dr. Lenore

Lenore Sikorski, MD
Laguna Niguel Dermatologic Surgeon

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