What kind of chemical peel would be best for my chest? (Photo)

Question

I've gone to a dermatologist, and they did a biopsy on my chest. They said I had hyperpigmentation. I tried expensive bleach creams, microdermabrasion, vitamin C serums and nothing seems to lighten it. I also have some mild acne and acne scarring in that area. It also gets red and itchy occasionally, what kind of chemical peel would work best to fade this?

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Our treatments use combination therapy to improve the epidermis and dermis for most deep scars. The options available for acne scars depend on the character of your scars, in terms of topography and contour. We see atrophic and hypertrophic acne scars, as well as scars that have hypo and hyperpigmentation. We begin each scar evaluation with an assessment of scar quality and subtype. Our main concern is rebuilding collagen and that is why we use a HIDEF protocol that includes combination therapy. Morpheus 8, scar subcision, fibrous release, fractional laser, CO2 laser, Thulium laser, PDL Vbeam laser, and fractional resurfacing can be used in addition to TCA Cross and chemical peels to further improve skin. Patients should start Melarase AM and Melarase PM for active hyperpigmentation. Always begin with a consultation to decide whether early subcision should be started.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Joseph J. Castellano, MD · Answer

Without having examined you, it’s difficult to say for sure
what the best treatment option is for you. I am not surprised that the topical
products you described were ineffective in addressing your pigmentation
concerns. However, I suspect that a series of chemical peels would be very
effective in evening out the hyperpigmentation and improving the appearance of
your chest skin. There are varying strengths and types of chemical peels
available, so visit your doctor to discuss the best combination of peeling
agents and the appropriate treatment schedule for your skin.

Brian C. Reuben, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. I would recommend consulting with a board certified plastic surgeon and discussing laser treatments. A combination of IPL and Fractionl C02 may provide you with better results. Best of luck.

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

I am not surprised that the treatments you have tried have not been successful. Topical creams have the problem of achieving sufficient penetration. Many OTC topical cosmeceutical do not penetrate sufficiently to be effective. And even the at-home use of prescription strength bleaching creams profit more when combined with in-office treatments. In the old days, we referred to microdermabrasion as epidermabrasion, i.e. the kind of very superficial abrasion that might be achieved by the vigorous use of a Buf Puf, Loofah, or even a rough wash cloth. So, I am again hardly surprised by its lack of efficacy in your case.A series of in-office superficial chemical peels can be employed. Peeling agents include full-strength glycolic acid, Jessner's solution, low concentration TCA, and high concentration salicylic acid. I often use a combination of these agents, applying Jessners or TCA to more resistant dyspigmentation and glycolic to the surrounding skin for blending. Typically six to eight peeling sessions, spaced  at two to four week intervals are required to achieve maximum effect. Fractional microneedle resurfacing (aka medical microneedling, dermal rolling, skin needling) is an alternative approach or one that may even be alternated with the above. Best to consult with a board certified aesthetic physician to determine which treatment or combination of treatments are most suited to you . Best of luck

Morris Westfried, MD · Answer

There are multiple laser options including halo from Sciton, picosure rejuvenation .The scars themselves can be treated safely with Microneedling. Combining Microneedling with laser can improve the appearance.

Dennis Gross, MD · Answer

My recommendation is to have a follow up with a board-certified dermatologist. You might benefit from a another laser treatment that helps with acne scarring. We use the Smoothbeam. This treatment has no pain and no downtime. Sometimes it is required to do more than one session. Here at my practice we have the Alpha Beta® Body chemical peels. A patented formulas using a blend of acids at low concentrations to deliver maximum benefits without irritation, dryness, flaking or downtime. These peels are great for treating body acne, aging skin, hyperpigmentation, and textural roughness. The strength of the peel would depend on what your doctor recommends. • The best thing is to keep doing them every month in a series until you achieve the desired results. Frequency every 4 to 6 weeks• Retinol Peel for Body Deep peel – Downtime 5 to 7 days, this peel might be the best option for you

What kind of chemical peel would be best for my chest? (Photo)

Answers (6)

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