How to treat PIH after 30 percent chemical peel?

Question

I went to a dermatologist, a little over a year ago to have a chemical peel on my chest and arms. I was under the impression that she was going to start with a lighter peel, but when we finishe, she told me I was treated with a 30 percent TCA peel. After healing, my arms still look blotchy and the pigment is uneven. I am topically treating with teritonon, and HQ (8 percent). Are there any other protocols that would be good to try?

Jeff Angobaldo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. it is always recommended to pretreat when doing chemical peels to avoid this type of reaction. we suggest to pretreat your skin 2 weeks before the peel with a melanin inhibitor such as a prescription grade hydroquoine. darker skin types are VERY prone to hyper and hypo pigmentation. My advice is to go to a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and they can prescribe you hydroquoine to lighten the hyperpigmentation  best of luck.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Hyperpigmentation after a chemical peel can take a long time to self-resolve. In our office, we use a combination protocol which includes Melapeels and Melarase creams. For at-home use, we recommend the daily peels known as Melapads. Best, Dr. Karamanoukian Los Angeles

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

You should see a cosmetic dermatologist with experience in lasers, peels and skin care.  You may need alternative treatments such as fractional lasers or pulsed dye laser to fix the damage from the TCA burn.  I am not a big fan of high percentage HQ creams and it would be better to get you on antioxidant and brightening creams instead.  Best, Dr. Emer.

How to treat PIH after 30 percent chemical peel?

Answers (3)