Hyperpigmentation After Chemical Peel? (photo)

Question

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...

A. David Rahimi, MD · Answer

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.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

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

Keri Sweeten, MD · Answer

Sorry to hear about this experience! As mentioned, Hispanics, Asians and African Americans do have a greater risks of Hyperpigmentation and doing further treatment should be done with caution. Bleaching agents and Retin A cream is helpful along with Impact-Infusion for Melasma, Hyperpigmentation. A combination of ultrasound and acoustic wave therapy to infuse any product such as the bleaching cream deep into the dermis. I recommend seeing a Board Certified Dermatologist, I hope this helps and best of luck!

Hratch Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Before you spend $$$ on lasers or specifically Clear + Brilliant, consider this regimen:
 recommend Melarase AM and Melarase PMto improve hyperpigmentation as well as Scler-X, a post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation relief complex. Scler-X is an oral supplement that is taken for 3-6 months or more for maintenance therapy.
Melarase AM in the morning. Melarase PM in the evening. Scler-X once daily. 
Also apply a wide spectrum high SPF 50+ sun block to prevent ongoing damage and PIH. I recommend Spectrase from Kare Skin. 
See link below.

Pablo Prichard, MD · Answer

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

Hyperpigmentation After Chemical Peel? (photo)

Answers (6)

Answer: PIH after chemical peel - post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation relief

Answer: PIH after chemical peel - post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation relief

Answer: Hyperpigmentation after a peel

Answer: Hyperpigmentation after a peel

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Everything you need to know about Chemical Peel

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Hyperpigmentation After Chemical Peel? (photo)

Answers (6)

Answer: PIH after chemical peel - post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation relief

Answer: PIH after chemical peel - post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation relief

Answer: Hyperpigmentation after a peel

Answer: Hyperpigmentation after a peel

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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.