Chemical Peel Vs. Laser Peel for Uneven Hispanic Skin Tone and Spots?

Question

I have Olive (Medium) skin, and I am hispanic. My face has an uneven skin tone. I have white spots and dark spots. I've never had any procedures done to my face, but I am confused about what procedure would be the most effective for me. Which between Chemical Peel and Laser Peel should I go for? I don't want to end up with major pigmentation issues because of my skin type.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Our treatments use combination therapy to improve the epidermis and dermis.  We see atrophic and hypertrophic scars, as well as scars that have hypo and hyperpigmentation. 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 discuss the best treatment options for your type of skin. .

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Michele S. Green, MD · Answer

Chemical Peels are much safer than lasers with darker skin.  I would definitely consult a board certified dermatologist to analyze your skin and determine what is the best treatment for your pigmentation.  Best, Dr. Green

Sutton Graham II, MD · Answer

Chemical or Laser:
Uneven skin pigmentation is a common concern with many causes and many treatments.  Your doctor should be someone who is experienced treating those conditions.  Stick with physicians (dermatology or plastic surgery) rather than medi-spas or primary care doctors.  Your heritage and complexion means that some common treatments (intense pulsed light) may not be suitable for you.
After evaluation and diagnosis, your doctor may start with a skin care program in which you regularly apply specific products.  Hydroquinone helps reduce hyperpigmentation.  Retin-A and glycolic acid products can help.  We have good success with the Obagi product line.www.expertplasticsurgeon.com/html/skin.html
Some types of lasers or chemical peels may be beneficial for you, but I would start with other methods first.

Bryan K. Chen, MD · Answer

You ought to consider seeking consultation with a dermatologist to diagnose your skin conditions before undergoing any procedure.  White spots and dark spots on the face have many potential causes.  If for example the white spots are related to an inflammatory skin condition, a chemical peel or laser treatment may not be beneficial and might even worsen your condition. 
Good luck.

Brooke R. Seckel, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

Chemical peels and ablative laser peels often cause dark pigmentation called hyperpigmentation when used on patients with dark skin.
The newer fractional non-ablative 1540 Erbium laser skin resurfacing is much safer for dark skin and will remove pigmented spots.
Be aware that 3-4 sessions will be necessary but there is little or no downtime.
Carefully search for a doctor who has experience treating dark skin with lasers - there are very few.

Chemical Peel Vs. Laser Peel for Uneven Hispanic Skin Tone and Spots?

Answers (5)

Answer: Chemical peel vs. laser for uneven skin tone and spots.

Answer: Chemical peel vs. laser for uneven skin tone and spots.

Answer: Non-ablative fractional laser resurfacing is best for uneven skin tone and brown spots

Answer: Non-ablative fractional laser resurfacing is best for uneven skin tone and brown spots

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Chemical Peel Vs. Laser Peel for Uneven Hispanic Skin Tone and Spots?

Answers (5)

Answer: Chemical peel vs. laser for uneven skin tone and spots.

Answer: Chemical peel vs. laser for uneven skin tone and spots.

Answer: Non-ablative fractional laser resurfacing is best for uneven skin tone and brown spots

Answer: Non-ablative fractional laser resurfacing is best for uneven skin tone and brown spots

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Chemical Peel

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