Treatments for brown spots on arms and legs? Can you get chemical peel on body?

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

Thank you for your question about correcting pigmentation concerns.  It is difficult to offer accurate advice without an in person consultation.  At our office we use the Sciton Laser.  For pigment concerns we use Broad Band Light(BBL), which is a feature on the Sciton laser.  This addresses both red and brown pigment concerns.  It is important to know that this treatment will draw the pigment out, but with sun exposure the pigment will return.  At our office we also sell Lytera 2.0, a pigment correcting serum.  


To be sure, see two or more experienced, licensed and board-certified providers in your area for a complete evaluation to make sure you are a good candidate and that it is safe for you to have treatment.

I hope this helps.

Yes, chemical peels can be used on the body for areas of hyperpigmentation or "dark spots."However, some areas of the skin are more sensitive and may be more prone to scarring. Depending on the location, skin-type, and type of hyperpigmentation, it may be more worthwhile to treat with IPL as it will be more effective. We recommend a thorough evaluation to determine the best therapy for each individual prior to any treatment. 

  I recommend IV glutathione and vitamin C for brown spots, skin discoloration and melasma.  This IV therapy not only helps with brown  spots but it also helps  improve skin tone, texture and elasticity, age spots, liver spots, sun damage and freckles while improving the overall appearance and texture of the skin giving it a more youthful look. 

You have a few options. Laser or IPL can be helpful for these brown spots, as can liquid nitrogen. Chemical peels can also be of benefit. Finally, topical therapy from your dermatologist can provide some benefit (more modest) as well.

You can absolutely receive chemical peels on arms, legs, chest and other body parts.  When the main issue is sun spots, I usually recommend a melanage peel.  You could also try a cream with a combination of hydroquinone and Retin-A.  This needs to be prescribed by a doctor, and can significantly lighten dark spots. However, the gold standard for getting rid of hyperpigmentation is laser.  While there are several very good ones on the market, I use the Cutera Limelight.  Usually, a series of 3 -4 treatments about 4 weeks apart is needed.It is very important that you are diligent with your sunscreen so that additional spots won't form.

The Alexandrite laser is great for reducing brown spots and sometimes can take 3 treatments.  You can also try an IPL which is also a great treatment for hyperpigmentation which can also take 3 treatments. 

The alexandrite laser should be the gold standard for treatment.. My question is any accidental sun exposure after the laser?  I would recommend the alexandrite laser again maybe with increase in energy being delivered.  Chemical peeling can be an option. On the extremeties chemical peeling is usually done more conservatively than on the face. Also photos would be useful.   

Yes, you can do body peels!
TCA is a good one. Consider microneedling, aswell.
Keep up with the SPF 30 or higher.
Dr Brecht 
Seattle, Wa

Battling brown spots on arms and legs is quite challenging due to the fact that they are always getting exposed to UV radiation.  Diligent use of sunblocks and avoidance of unprotected UV exposure is your best treatment.  Use of a glycolic acid lotion will help them to eventually fade but it can take a while, there are several layers of skin involved in the hyperpigmentation.  A weekly scrub will also help to exfoliate the discoloration.  Permanent removal of dark spots can result in a hypopigmented spot on the skin.  The best treatment is to avoid UV exposure.