Will a chemical peel cause an acne flare up?

Question

I had a mild acne flare up last month that left some hyperpigmentation. I want to do a chemical peel to get rid of the spots but I’m scared it’ll cause another flare up, right now my skin is relatively clear aside from a few hyperpigmentation spots. Would a chemical peel be recommended in this case or not?

Matt Tahsini, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. I do not recommend a chemical peel with acne as it will further irritate the area. I recommend using IPL to treat the affected area. I think you will see very positive results. I suggest an in person evaluation to explore your options. Best wishes.
Dr. T

Robert T. Buchanan, MD (retired) · Answer

The last thing you need for post-traumatic hyperpigmentation is a peel. Peels, in fact, in someone like you are very likely to simply cause more pigmentation from the trauma of the peel itself. There are only 2 things that really work well in these cases. One is use of hydroquinone cream to control the pigment cells. If you have continuing acne, the Obagi Nu-Derm system, which contains hydroquinone, can treat both the hyperpigmantation and the acne. The other is a specialized IPL (Intense Pulsed Light machine) that can target the pigmented areas. Make sure you see a physician with expertise in treating this.

Will a chemical peel cause an acne flare up?

Answers (2)

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