Can I do a chemical peel while still using hydroquinone?

Question

A 23 years old black female

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Chemical peels can be titrated to varying strengths ranging from superficial to deep. The answer to your question depends on the depth of the peel of course. I would suggest continuing Melarase PM Arbutin up until the day of the peel and then afterwards when the skin has epithelialized.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian

Falguni Patel, MD, FACOG · Answer

It is recommended to discontinue hydroquinone 1 to 2 weeks prior to a chemical peel. After your skin has fully recovered from a chemical peel usually 7 to 14 days depending on the peel you can begin using hydroquinone again.

Barbara Padilla, MD · Answer

You should stop using hydroquinone a few days before your peel, and then resume use 2 weeks after.  Also, after the peeling is complete, avoid tanning and direct sun exposure for two weeks before your treatment, do not use products containing retinoids (such as tretinoin) one to two weeks before treatment, unless your doctor tells you differently and make sure the peel areas are free of any open sores, lesions, or skin infections.

Stanley Castor, MD · Answer

Hi Najeebs,

This really depends on the integrity of your skin. I would recommend seeing a skin care professional for an in-person evaluation. Hydroquinone reacts differently to everyone's skin and may cause some excessive sensitivity.

Can I do a chemical peel while still using hydroquinone?

Answers (4)

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