How do I combine 4% hydroquinone cream with 20% salicylic acid peel?

Question

Hi. I recently started using 20% salicylic acid peel because of acne, oily skin and ingrown hairs. My acne is moderate but the ingrown hairs at the side of my chin and neck has left me with really dark marks. I had my first chemical peel a week ago and I will have the next one next week. Meanwhile, after the first 4 days of my peel ( I had no redness, dryness or peeling), I started using 4% hydroquinone cream on those dark marks. Is this method safe, or should I stick to one treatment at a time?

Larry S. Nichter, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

Strong salicylic acid peel was such as the 20% strength should be performed under the guidance and followup of a trained medical aesthetician supervised by a physician. Pre-treatment, expert application, and followup treatment including the use of 4% hydroquinone cream and oftentimes a retinoid is part of the expert followup care required for the best results and differs from patient to patient including when to have a secondary peel.

Robert M. Freund, MD · Answer

This method is safe however I would also recommend a tretinoin 1% in conjunction with this regimen to allow for a deeper penetration of the hydroquinone and for faster results to lighten the dark spots. Please make sure to use a daily sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) to protect the skin from aging and more brown spots.Myriam CastilloMedical Aesthetician

How do I combine 4% hydroquinone cream with 20% salicylic acid peel?

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How do I combine 4% hydroquinone cream with 20% salicylic acid peel?

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Salicylic Peel

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.