Is a chemical peel enough for my neck/even out skin tone? (Photos)

Question

My neck and overall face is a lot darker than my body and it’s very noticeable and unflattering. Would a chemical peel be able to even out my skin tone? Or are other methods needed to correct things?

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Our treatments use combination therapy to improve the epidermis and dermis for most deep scars. The options available for acne scars depend on the character of your scars, in terms of topography and contour. We see atrophic and hypertrophic acne scars, as well as scars that have hypo and hyperpigmentation. We begin each scar evaluation with an assessment of scar quality and subtype. Our main concern is rebuilding collagen and that is why we use a HIDEF protocol that includes combination therapy. Morpheus 8, scar subcision, fibrous release, fractional laser, CO2 laser, Thulium laser, PDL Vbeam laser, and fractional resurfacing can be used in addition to TCA Cross and chemical peels to further improve skin. Patients should start Melarase AM and Melarase PM for active hyperpigmentation. Always begin with a consultation to decide whether early subcision should be started.

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

If by a chemical peel is meant the use of a strong chemical peeling agent, like TCA in high cncentrations or full-strength phenol, I would be very concerned, particularly in people of skin of color, about the development of persistent post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation, which, particularly the latter, may be irreversible. However, the use of a series of superficial chemical peeling agents, such glycolic or salicylic acid in high concentrations, Jessner's Solution, or TCA in lower concentrations, can prove quite helpful, especially when combined with the at-home use of prescription bleaching agents. If necessary, professionally performed microneedling may be combined with the foregoing for additional benefit. Be wary of offers for use of the relatively expensive, particularly light-based energy devices, such as lasers, as these can be particularly problematic when used in persons of skin of color. Make sure that you consult with a board certified cosmetic dermatologist. Best of luck.

Milan Doshi, MS, MCh · Answer

Thank you, img53 for your question and photographs.
 Photographic evaluation is incomplete without personal examination to give the most appropriate answer
 However from the photographs, it seems that,
There is a stark contrast between the two skin tones, but the type of chemical peel to be used depends on the depth of your pigmentation, skin type and whether you have other health issues such as diabetes or if you are overweight which can cause Acanthosis nigricans. Along with chemical peel, you can use prescribed topical creams and/or oral medications which are prescribed by your dermatologist.

Please consult a board-certified dermatologist near you and discuss this in detail.
Wish you an alluring look.

Glenn Vallecillos, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello IMG53, Your neck and face are a lot darker than your face and body due to sun exposure. Despite not seeing the rest of your torso and arms; it appears to be a "farmer's tan".

What you could do to even out the skin-tone of your body would be:

1. Exfoliate your entire body (removing the dead skin cells will speed-up you gaining an even-skin tone throughout your body, by ensuring the skin that shows/is at the top is the freshest 
2. Wear SPF 30 or higher on your face and neck ( and arms if they're also tanned; i.e. any part of your body that is exposed to the sun )
3. OPTIONAL: wear sunscreen SPF 30+ on the "darker" sections of your body while tanning (with your shirt off/no top for no more than 30mins. Do this gradually until your skin is more in unison throughout your body.

The third step is optional because it could potentially speed up your results but steps 1&2 are enough to get results (with enough time). Another thing to note would be limiting your overall sun exposure (if possible) because whatever part of your body is exposed (especially if there's no SPF protection) will get darker than the parts that aren't.

Also, if you don't have a skin care routine please do research but start with a moisturizer, facial cleanser, and a sun-screen as a foundation. You will notice a significant improvement in skin texture, look, and feel especially if you've never practiced a skin regimen.

Venkata Puppala, MD · Answer

Hi The pigmentation if the neck and face is due to a condition called Acanthosis Nigricans. It is due to skin overgrowth in the neck and face from Metabolic syndrome. It could lead to Diabetes in the future. Chemicals peels and Metformin will help with the condition.

Is a chemical peel enough for my neck/even out skin tone? (Photos)

Answers (5)

Answer: Farmer's tan is the cause

Answer: Farmer's tan is the cause

Answer: Acanthosis Nigricans

Answer: Acanthosis Nigricans

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Everything you need to know about Chemical Peel

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Is a chemical peel enough for my neck/even out skin tone? (Photos)

Answers (5)

Answer: Farmer's tan is the cause

Answer: Farmer's tan is the cause

Answer: Acanthosis Nigricans

Answer: Acanthosis Nigricans

Browse related questions

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.