TCA peel burn on face. Can I do glycolic acid peel to take off top layer? (Photo)

Question

I had done chemical peel 1months ago and i have got burn marks quite a lot on my face. How can i get back normal skin? I went to GP and they give me hydrocortisone 1% and using over a month but still not clear. Can i do other peel like glycolic acid and take off top layer? Does it help?

Jacob Sedgh, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question! I’m so sorry you’re
     dealing with a TCA burn. However, another peel may not be the answer for
     you. Darker skin does have a higher risk of hyper-pigmentation so you’ll
     need to be careful with what you choose to do next. I would absolutely
     suggest seeing an experienced dermatologist who can evaluate your skin and
     make recommendations on what to do next. We wish you the best!

Rebecca Fitzgerald, MD · Answer

Nonwhite skin is very susceptible to hyperpigmentation with aggressive treatments of any kind whether that is chemical peeling or laser like devices.  You are experiencing that result and I'm sorry you must endure a problem of this magnitude.Another chemical peel would not only not help, but may create additional pigmentation. You should see a dermatologist and discuss the use of pigment suppressing agents that could help lighten the areas. Sunblock or sunscreen use every day is imperative (sunblock works better, but may cause a slight white cast). Sun exposure at this stage is your worst enemy. Hot environments, going to the gym, being in a sauna or hot tub - all can make pigmentation worse.

Amy Y. Paul, DO, FAAD · Answer

Thanks for your question and helpful photo.  I am so sorry you are going through this!  I would definitely not risk any more chemical peels of any kind.  You have post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation that is a reaction to the peel.  This is common in richly pigmented skin.  Please see your dermatologist to discuss other options including creams containing retinoids and hydroquinone, and they will also help you find a sunscreen that will look most natural on your skin.  It is going to take time and patience to reduce this pigment, so please work with an expert and best of luck!

TCA peel burn on face. Can I do glycolic acid peel to take off top layer? (Photo)

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TCA peel burn on face. Can I do glycolic acid peel to take off top layer? (Photo)

Answers (3)

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Everything you need to know about Glycolic Peel

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