Darkened Skin Permanent Normal After TCA Peel?

Question

I just had a 30% TCA peel done 11 days ago. It frosted then dried up and peeled, and now my skin is dark. Could this be hyperpigmentation? If so will it fade over time? I am going to start using hydroquinone it is so embarrassing, but the doctors say it is normal.Will the darkness fade soon? I have to go on a summer vacation and its so embarrasing, as I cant wear my back out.

Otto Joseph Placik, MD · Answer

I have seen this reaction in patients with darker complexions as well.
It is important to use sunscreens as well.
This can have a component of postinflammatory hyperpigmentation and the use of a combination bleaching agent with a steroid component is also beneficial.

Hratch Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Brown skin, Asian skin, East Indian and African American skin is prone to hyperpigmentation.
Before you spend $$ on peels or IPL, try these topicals.
This is called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). 
I recommend Melarase AM and Melarase PM creams from Kare Skin as well as a broad spectrum sunblock like Spectrase. Bothe are from Kare Skin. Scler-x post inflammatory hyperigmentation relief complex is a great supplement to take as well. See link below. 
Spectrase is a wide spectrum sunblock SPF 50+that is also recommended to prevent ongoing inflammation.

Darkened Skin Permanent Normal After TCA Peel?

Answers (2)