I would like a second opinion: Is it ok to get IPL and chemical peel treatments for hyperpigmentation?

Question

Hi Sofar I have gotten 4 IPL treatments on my face and I do see lightening of my hyperpigmentation already. I would be interested to know if I could combine IPL with chemical peels. My esthetician recommended an AHA Vitamin C peel or TCA peel Would it be ok to get a chemical peel done after IPL? If yes how many days apart should I get them done? I am interested more in TCA peel and at what strength should I start.my skin usually tolerates acids very well. I have South Asian skin Thanx

Ramandeep Sidhu, MD · Answer

Hi, IPL in combination with chemical peels are the best way to get skin brightening results. Whether its a TCA or Hydroquine base peel. The best plan to get them done is to start with a chemical peel and follow it up with an IPL 2 weeks later. You want to plan with your Master Aesthetician on what is best depending on your skin type and goal. You do not want to do less the 3-5 IPL's getting a peel 2 weeks before a 2 weeks after an IPL. Vitamin C is a very important product to use with your everyday skincare regimen to prevent anymore damage and to repair the damage that has been caused by the environments free radicals.  I hope this is helpful to you, Best regards Dr. Sidhu

Rebecca Fitzgerald, MD · Answer

With ethnic skin, the best option is to go very slowly. Please see a board certified dermatologist before embarking on strong chemical peels.

All ethnic skin is more sensitive to peels and devices and have higher risk of post treatment hyper pigmentation and in some cases pigment loss. There are many procedures that are safe and effective when chosen carefully and correctly. Let your doctor help you with these decisions.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

for hyperpigmentation the only safe peels are cosmelan and enlighten (which can be done at home with virtual consults through emeragecosmetics.com) however lighter peels can be done in the office, IPL Is NOT SAFE for pigmentation.
Hyperpigmentation from any type needs a combination approach of peels like cosmelan,  lasers like clear and brilliant and aerolase or laser genesis, radiofrequency like venus viva, and constant skin care and sun protection.  Bimontly facials with silk peel dermalinfusion is essential to hydrate, exfoliate and infuse vitamins and antioxidants into the skin.  If you have acne you can do additional treatments and peels to get more improvement.  I suggest a formal consultation with an expert in lasers and peels. Best, Dr. Emer.

Dusan Sajic, MD, PhD · Answer

I think the best is to consult with a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist. Only they have all of the knowledge that is tested through rigorous examinations after medical school and residency
Post inflammatory hyperpigmentation is very hard to treat. It is good that you’re seeing some improvement With IPL. You have to be really careful with your Asian skin as you’re much more prone to further post inflammatory hyperpigmentation from the treatments themselves.
Generally we recommend starting with ipl and clearlift (q switched nd yag). Chemical peels with or without Radio frequency micro needling (like Morpheus8) are generally the next steps.
Skin care with sunscreen, arbutin, vitamin c and tranexamic acid (sometimes a prescription pill) are also a must!
Good luck

I would like a second opinion: Is it ok to get IPL and chemical peel treatments for hyperpigmentation?

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I would like a second opinion: Is it ok to get IPL and chemical peel treatments for hyperpigmentation?

Answers (4)

Answer: Pih

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Everything you need to know about IPL

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