Do Chemical Peels Work for Hyperpigmentation? - Choosing the Best Treatment
Have you been noticing patches of discolored or dark skin on your face? Then, that’s hyperpigmentation. Fret not! Hyperpigmentation is harmless. However, if it is ruining your looks and affecting your confidence, you should treat it and get rid of it. Chemical peel is one of the ways to treat hyperpigmentation. However, does a chemical peel for hyperpigmentation prove as effective? And if so, which chemical peel for hyperpigmentation is the best? Here’s the answer.
What is a Chemical Peel?
Also known as chemical exfoliation, a chemical peel is an ablative resurfacing method that penetrates the skin depending on the type of chemical used and its concentration. Based on how deep the chemicals reach, one can witness effects like enhanced texture, younger appearance, and reduced pigmentation.
Chemical peels are classified as alpha hydroxy and beta hydroxy, depending on the chemicals used. Alpha Hydroxy helps the body shed old and sun-damaged surface skin cells. On the other hand, beta hydroxy acids have antibacterial properties and help regulate the production of sebum. Hence, they are suitable for oil and blemished skin or skin types prone to the latter.
Which Chemical Peel for Hyperpigmentation – Best Options
Let’s now look at some treatment options with regard to chemical peel for hyperpigmentation.
- TCA Peels
Trichloroacetic acid peels are an excellent alternative for medium-depth peels. They help reduce wrinkles and treat skin discoloration and sun damage. TCA peels are usually used in concentrations <50 percent and with other chemical peels to penetrate the skin deeper. However, given the depth of TCA peels penetrate, they may cause side effects like bacterial infections and scarring.
- Glycolic Acid Peels
Glycolic acid peels are used in strengths of 30-70 percent. They are amongst the few peels that need neutralization with sodium bicarbonate. These peels are well-suited for superficial targets. However, they can reach medium depth when you use them with other peeling agents.
- Mild Chemical Peels
For people with sensitive skin, doctors may prescribe mild chemical peels with lactic acid and mandelic acid.
- Salicylic Acid peels
These peels are popular for hyperpigmentation related to acne and other skin conditions. Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that can penetrate oil-filled pores, thus making the peel effective for active breakouts and pigmentation associated with them.
- Lactic Acid Peels
These are also alpha hydroxy peels that help treat surface issues like skin discoloration, sun damage, wrinkles, and fine lines.
Side Effects of Chemical Peels
Chemical peels involve chemicals to which the body can respond in different ways. Some common side effects of chemical peels include the following.
- Swelling and redness
- Skin flaking or peeling
- Itching or burning sensation on the skin
- Occasional blisters in the treated area
- Scarring or infection (rare)
Skin pigmentation changes, including lightening or darkening of the skin. Are you looking for a chemical peel for hyperpigmentation near you? Visit Reborn. Get all your questions answered, receive personalized consultation, and know which chemical for hyperpigmentation is best suited for you. Our doctors diagnose your condition thoroughly and prescribe what’s right, suitable, and safe for you. We are located across multiple locations, including Koregaon Park, Karve Road, and Baner in Pune. Our presence now includes Jaipur as well.