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Hyperpigmentation After Chemical Peel? (photo)

I had a chemical peel (lactic acid) a month ago. My skin was inflammed but thexresults were satisfying after a week. I was ask to come for a second treatment but notified the Dr. I was weary about what happened last time. I just got a skin cleaning (no idea of products used) but now I have the worst hyperpigmentation on my face. I am being treated for the inflammation (eczema prone) but I am afraid these dark spots won't go...

Doctor Answers 4

Facial Hyperpigmentation

May 30th, 2013
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Certain darker skin types (ie. Asian, Hispanic and African American) are more in danger of hyperpigmentation, especially after certain treatments or trauma to the skin. That being said, lighter peeling agents such as lactic acid do not typically cause hyperpigmentation. I am not sure what you mean by a skin cleaning, but it really looks like something after the peel irritated your skin. Regardless, I recommend you consult a board-certified dermatologist to discuss aggressive treatment with bleaching creams to reduce the hyperpigmentation. Going forward, I would advise taking great caution with any treatments to avoid a similar problem. Also be very careful with sun which can worsen hyperpigmentation.

Web reference: http://www.barnettdermatology.com/conditions.php?id=19

Channing R. Barnett, MD

Hyperpigmentation

May 30th, 2013
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 Asian, Hispanic and African American skin are highly prone to hyper-pigmentation. Lactic acid and Glycolic acids are generally quite mild and should not do this! Did you get a lot of sun exposure after the treatment? Was there any scabbing or crusting? Post inflammatory hyper-pigmentation from a superficial peel or laser will always resolve with no scarring. It may take a few weeks to a few months. I suggest a visit with an experienced Dermatologist. Hydroquinone creams topically, Kojic Acid twice a week, Retin A cream once a week is how I treat PIH. Very mild Microdermabrasion helps as well.You should tell all your future doctors about your tendency to hyper pigment. Any procedure on your face needs to be carefully planned with a prep that includes bleaching cream and Retin A for at least 2 weeks before the treatment.

A. David Rahimi, MD

A. David Rahimi, MD
Los Angeles Dermatologist
4.7 out of 5 stars 47 reviews

Melasma treatment after a chemical peel

August 3rd, 2013
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I would avoid direct sunlight and begin a topical regimen including Melarase AM, Melarase PM, and RR Complex Retinoid Repair. Raffy Karamanoukian, Los Angeles

Web reference: http://karemd.com/cosmetic-dermatology/14/melasma-treatment.aspx

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS
Los Angeles Plastic Surgeon
4.8 out of 5 stars 90 reviews

Hyperpigmentation after a peel

June 25th, 2013
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As stated below every skin type will react different to peels. However peels this mild usually don't cause the damage shown in your picture. I would recommend consulting with your dermatologist or doctor on the best treatment options (possibly laser treatments). Some of this discoloration could resolve itself over time depending on how deep the damage is. Wear lots of sunscreen and hats when you go outside; this will help reduce the amount of permanent damage. Speak to your provider about a lightening product such as hydroquinone once your skin is healed

Pablo Prichard, MD

Pablo Prichard, MD
Phoenix Plastic Surgeon
4.9 out of 5 stars 40 reviews

These answers are for educational purposes and should not be relied upon as a substitute for medical advice you may receive from your physician. If you have a medical emergency, please call 911. These answers do not constitute or initiate a patient/doctor relationship.