What chemical peels are safe for those allergic to salicylic acid and darker complexions?

Question

I want to have a chemical peel done to treat hyper pigmentation, to reduce my pores and to improve the texture of my skin. I've had a series of glycolic peels and microdermabrasions in the past with minimal results. I am an African American that is allergic to salicylic acid. I read great reviews on the VI peel but due to the salicylic acid I can't get that. Are there any peels that are suitable for me? Can the vi peel be made without the already small amount of salicylic acid?

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

I would like to suggest an entirely different approach to the improvement in skin texture, the improvement of dilated pores and the evening out of irregular pigmentation. I am not surprised that there was little benefit from microdermabrasion, since this is really just a form of epidermabrasion and a similar effect can be obtained with the repeated vigorous use of a Buf-Puf or a wash cloth. A series of glycolic acid peels (6-8) at semimonthly intervals can be effective especially when performed with maximal strength (70% concentrations). I generally find lower concentrations to be much less beneficial and I would suggest that you find out what concentration was used for you, as the use of a lower concentration might be responsible for your lack of response. A series of TCA (10-15%) peels might be a suitable alternative, although care should be taken in people of color owing to some concern for the development of hypopigmentation.Fractional Medical Microneedle treatment or medical microneedling, either performed with a manual Dermaroller or an electrically driven device (Dermapen) is an excellent approach for improving overall skin texture and color and for improving fine wrinkles and superficial scars. Consultation with a board certified aesthetic core physician with extensive experience with all available modalities is your best bet for achieving gratifying improvement.

David P. Melamed, MD · Answer

Lactic acid and glycolic acid are both safe as long as they are performed by a certified professional.

What chemical peels are safe for those allergic to salicylic acid and darker complexions?

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What chemical peels are safe for those allergic to salicylic acid and darker complexions?

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Everything you need to know about Chemical Peel

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