Can an Obagi Blue Peel Get Rid of Dermal Hyperpigmentation?

Question

This hyperpigmentation is on my upper lip and is bluish-grey in colour. I believe it arose from waxing my upper lip and then going out in strong sunlight approximately 6 months ago. I have never had any pigmentation problems in the past. I have already tried one session of IPL, with no success, perhaps because the pigmentation is not very dark in comparison to the surrounding skin.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

I use the Blue Peel for hyperpigmentation associated with melasma.  Patients are advised to use Melarase cream as a prep prior to peeling. Raffy Karamanoukian, Los Angeles

Hratch Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

The Obagi TAC peel is an excellent choice for post inflammatory hyperpigmentation or conditions such as melasma. In preparation for the Blue peel I recommend Melarase AM and Melarase PM to prep the skin. Best.

Peter A. Aldea, MD · Answer

a Blue Peel is an Obagi branded moderate depth TCA peel. The peel does not correct Hyperpigmentation and if done in a skin prone to Hyperpigmentation such as yourself may result in further Hyperpigmentation. A better approach but gradual is to use bleaching creams. Not glamorous but very effective.

David M. Deisher, MD (retired) · Answer

The stronger the concentration of TCA that is used during
the Blue Peel, the deeper it will penetrate. 
Sometimes more than one coat is needed, as well as a series of peels a
month or six weeks apart.  Prior to
proceeding with a Blue Peel, I would recommend getting involved with a good
skin care regimen in order to maximize the health of the skin or “turbo charge
it” so that the skin should be able to heel very quickly after a Blue
Peel.  At the time of your consultation
with the plastic surgeon, it is important that you discuss what your goal is
for the Blue Peel so they can decide the appropriate level and number of coats
that would be needed.

Vincent D. Lepore, MD (retired) · Answer

I would not suggest an Obagi Blue Peel for your situation of lip hyperpigmentation.  The likelihood  that this treatment will improve the hyperpigmentation is low and there is a chance that it could make the situation worse.  I agree with my colleagues, topical bleaching creams including tretinoin and hydroquinone would be the safest and best option.  We also use the Obagi Nu-derm System, which incorporates the above medications, and have found that it works reasonably well for your situation.

Can an Obagi Blue Peel Get Rid of Dermal Hyperpigmentation?

Answers (6)

Answer: An Obagi Blue Peel is a TCA peel mixed with a dye, or indicator, that shows the depth of the peel.

Answer: An Obagi Blue Peel is a TCA peel mixed with a dye, or indicator, that shows the depth of the peel.

Answer: Obagi Blue Peel and lip hyperpigmentation

Answer: Obagi Blue Peel and lip hyperpigmentation

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Can an Obagi Blue Peel Get Rid of Dermal Hyperpigmentation?

Answers (6)

Answer: An Obagi Blue Peel is a TCA peel mixed with a dye, or indicator, that shows the depth of the peel.

Answer: An Obagi Blue Peel is a TCA peel mixed with a dye, or indicator, that shows the depth of the peel.

Answer: Obagi Blue Peel and lip hyperpigmentation

Answer: Obagi Blue Peel and lip hyperpigmentation

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Blue Peel

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.