Can You Get Chemical Peels for Hyperpigmentation?
As we age, the cumulative effects of sun exposure can appear in the form of dark spots, discoloration, and uneven skin tones. Fortunately, chemical peels have a dramatic effect on hyperpigmentation, turning back the clock on sun-damaged skin and revealing a youthful, vibrant glow. Join us for a guide to the best chemical peels for hyperpigmentation and tips to maximize your results.
What are the types of chemical peels for hyperpigmentation?
Acid-based chemical peels vary by strength and potency, and in most cases, are highly customizable to meet your unique needs. While there are many options out there, they all fall into one of three categories:
Superficial or light chemical peels
Superficial chemical peels typically include mild acids, such as alpha-hydroxy acids (glycolic and lactic acid) or beta-hydroxy acids (salicylic). They gently exfoliate the outermost layer of skin and cause very few side effects.
Over time, these chemical peels can fade hyperpigmentation and soften fine lines. If you’re new to chemical peels and want to ease into treatment, test the waters with a lighter peel before opting for more intensive treatments.
Medium chemical peels
Medium chemical peels take a more aggressive approach to hyperpigmentation, acne scars, and established wrinkles. Containing stronger concentrations of glycolic acid and trichloroacetic acid (TCA), these peels work on deeper layers of the dermis to deliver more transformative effects.
While these treatments require a longer recovery period, you’ll need fewer sessions to achieve noticeable results. Consider booking a BioRePeel treatment with nanoneedling to reveal a glowing complexion.
Deep chemical peels
Most deep chemical peels are medical procedures performed by dermatologists and plastic surgeons to remove precancerous cells or address advanced wrinkles and sagging skin. They require general anesthesia and come with substantially higher risks than the chemical peels you’ll receive at your favorite aesthetics clinic.
Related: What To Expect From Your HydraFacial Results
What are the benefits of chemical peels for hyperpigmentation?
With a consistent treatment series, chemical peels can have a profound effect on hyperpigmentation, transforming your skin and revitalizing your complexion. Here are some of the benefits to look forward to:
Reduce dark spots
Sun spots, melasma, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation all cause discoloration to appear on your face, but the right chemical peel can reverse the damage. These treatments eliminate dead skin cells and encourage faster cellular regeneration to fade dark spots and even out your complexion.
Stimulate collagen production
Medium and light chemical peels go beyond mere exfoliation – they also kickstart your body’s natural healing mechanisms and encourage more robust collagen production. Over time, you’ll notice that your skin is firmer and bouncier with fewer fine lines.
Improve skin tone and texture
In addition to evening out dark spots and inconsistent skin tones, chemical peels can also smooth a rough, bumpy skin texture and minimize the appearance of enlarged pores. By removing dead skin cells, balancing oil production, and boosting collagen reserves, these treatments can reveal a smoother, more radiant glow.
Read more: Benefits of Microneedling for Acne Vulgaris
How to prep your skin before chemical peels for hyperpigmentation
How you care for your skin before a chemical peel will impact your comfort during recovery and your overall results. Here are a few tips to help you make the most of chemical peels for hyperpigmentation:
Use sun protection
Applying a chemical peel to sunburned skin is a major faux pas, but even normal amounts of daily sun exposure can make skin more sensitive during and after the procedure and increase the risk of additional hyperpigmentation.
In the weeks before your appointment, wear broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 every single day, reapplying every two hours when you’re actively out in the sun. Wear protective clothing and stay in the shade as much as possible. Your skin will thank you!
Stop exfoliating
As your chemical peel approaches, it’s essential to nourish your moisture barrier, so this is the time to put your typical exfoliant away and take a different approach to skincare. About a week before your appointment, stop using harsh scrubs, chemical exfoliants, and retinoids that may increase cellular turnover.
Instead, focus on deep hydration and protection. Use a mild cleanser, hyaluronic acid serum, and soothing moisturizer to lock in hydration and prepare your skin for its transformation.
Hold off on other skin treatments
In addition to at-home exfoliation, professional treatments that eliminate dead skin cells, inhibit barrier function, and expose pores and follicles are also off-limits. Waxing, laser treatments, and microdermabrasion will need to wait.
If you plan to incorporate microneedling with your chemical peels for hyperpigmentation, be sure to inform your esthetician so she can help you craft the perfect treatment plan and offer guidance to properly prep your skin.
Related: Acne Facial: Treatment, Benefits, and Aftercare
Experience healthier skin with chemical peels at Lux & Lav Aesthetics!
At Lux & Lav Aesthetics, we specialize in personalized skincare treatments to help our clients achieve dramatic results. Ready to learn more? Book a consultation today to get started!
