Table of Contents
The best chemical peels for hyperpigmentation are available in a variety of strengths and types. They are classified based on their intensity. There are three types: light (AHAs and BHAs), medium (TCA), and deep (phenol).
A chemical peel is a beauty procedure that involves the application of a chemical solution to the skin, which causes it to exfoliate and eventually peel off.
Benefits of Chemical Peels for Hyperpigmentation & More
Chemical peels are used to treat specific skin conditions or to improve your appearance by improving your skin’s tone and texture.
They are most commonly used in those body areas: the face, neck, and hands.
They can help reduce or improve the following: being born with them, aging, or sun damage that can lead to fine lines and wrinkle formations around the mouth and eyes.
A dermatologic surgeon can help you figure out the best way to treat your problems.
The best chemical peels for hyperpigmentation, which penetrate deep into the skin, break up clusters of melanin that cause the appearance of dark spots.
What happens during chemical peels?
During a chemical peel, the top layers of skin are taken off so that new, healthy skin can grow underneath.
Extra melanin removed from the skin reduces the visibility of dark skin patches.
The new skin should have a more uniform color distribution and blend in better with the surrounding skin. However, it may take several sessions.
The amount of hyperpigmentation that is reduced depends on how strong the peel is and how bad the condition is.
Other benefits of chemical peels
It can also help with scarring, sun spots, aging signs, freckles, and uneven skin tone, all of which can be treated with chemical peels.
and help with actinic keratosis, which refers to precancerous scaly spots, rough and scaly skin, and a dull complexion.
Pregnancy, birth control pills, or injections are the causes of melasma (dark patches). The dermatologist will determine the depth of the chemical peel that will be best for your condition.
The type of chemical peel you get will depend on the state of your skin and what you want to get out of the treatment.
Chemical peels do not work well on sags, bulges, deep scars, deep facial lines, or more severe wrinkles.
Other cosmetic surgical procedures, such as carbon dioxide laser resurfacing, a facelift, a brow lift, an eye lift, or a soft tissue filler, will be better options if these are your concerns.
Chemical Peels Types
- Light chemical peels
- Medium chemical peels
- Deep chemical peels
1. Light chemical peels for treating hyperpigmentation
Since light chemical peels don’t go deep into the skin, they are the safest way to treat hyperpigmentation.
Don’t worry—just because it’s on the surface doesn’t mean it’s ineffective!
This group contains a variety of acids. The main distinction is between AHAs and BHAs, which you may have noticed in very low concentrations in some of your skincare products.
Glycolic acid, salicylic acid, and lactic acid are the most common.
and we will discuss them in detail.
A. Glycolic Acid Peels
It is a strong exfoliant that can reduce the signs of aging and hyperpigmentation.
It does this by weakening the bonds between the cells in the top layer of the skin,
which makes it easier to get rid of dead skin cells and gives the skin a fresh look and a healthy glow.
Glycolic acid, in particular, reacts quickly with the top layer of skin.
This process, called desquamation, weakens the bonds between the lipids that link the dead cells of the skin together.
Dr. Kreptic says that this lets the top layer of skin dissolve, revealing the skin underneath.
These effects can make wrinkles, sun spots, melasma, and acne scars look less noticeable.
Exfoliating regularly can also help with acne management because it keeps pores clear.
What is The effect of glycolic acid on Melasma?
To treat melasma, glycolic acid can be used to stop the skin from making more melanin. It does this by stopping tyrosinase from doing its job.
Tyrosinase is an enzyme that accelerates the complicated process by which some skin cells make the pigment melanin.
Slowing down this process causes less hyperpigmentation.
However, don’t expect to see results right away; it usually takes four to eight treatments before you notice a significant difference.
Can a glycolic acid peel be performed on acne-prone or sensitive skin?
Chemical peels can help improve the appearance of acne scars, but only if you have active acne.
Research suggests that glycolic acid has antibacterial effects on P. acnes,
but people with sensitive skin or conditions like psoriasis, rosacea, or eczema should talk to a board-certified dermatologist before getting a chemical peel.
Note!!!!
Before getting a glycolic acid peel, pregnant women should talk to their dermatologist because it can irritate their skin and get into their bloodstream.
Lower concentrations (up to 10%) are fine, but higher concentrations may get into the bloodstream and have effects during pregnancy.
What glycolic acid concentration should you request?
Glycolic acid peels are different in terms of the concentration of glycolic acid and the length of time it stays on the skin, according to Debra Jaliman, M.D., in New York City.
In-office peelers use glycolic acid for light or “superficial” peel, which will only peel the skin’s surface layer, which is beneficial for mild hyperpigmentation.
A light peel
requires no downtime, but you should wait 24 hours before using skincare or makeup products to allow your skin to heal.
Medium peels:
Use a 35% to 50% concentration of glycolic acid for two to five minutes to reach that level
Medium-depth peels can help with melasma and hyperpigmentation while also improving skin texture.
A medium-depth peel, on the other hand, will leave your skin red and sensitive for about a week.
During this time, you won’t be able to wear makeup or use some skin-care products.
Deep peels:
Dermatologists use 55% to 70% glycolic acid for deep peels, which are applied for at least three minutes and possibly up to 15 minutes.
These peels can reach the reticular dermis, which is the lower layer of the dermis, under the papillary dermis.
Deep peels can do everything that medium peels can do, plus they can make acne scars look better.
To treat deeper wrinkles or precancerous growths, deep peels take two weeks to heal because they can cause side effects like infection and scarring.
For a peel that only lasts a few minutes, a high glycolic acid concentration (anything over 70%) is too much.
The exact procedure and time of exposure will vary depending on your skin goals, and your dermatologist will have the information to determine which depth is best for you.
Salicylic acid peels
Salicylic acid peel is a type of chemical peel used to treat acne.
It involves applying a chemical to the skin, such as glycolic acid, mandelic acid, lactic acid, or salicylic acid, which causes it to degrade and shed.
Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that has been used on the skin for more than 2,000 years.
It comes from willow bark, sweet birch, and wintergreen leaves, which are all natural sources of salicylates.
It is a gentle and well-tolerated peel that is suitable for all skin types and has some skin benefits.
Salicylic Acid Benefits
Salicylic acid is an anti-inflammatory and comedolytic agent that can help reduce inflammation, redness, and swelling caused by acne.
Whitfield’s ointment and a salicylic acid peel can also be used to treat fungal infections, such as fungal acne.
Salicylic acid is a hemolytic acid, which means that it breaks down and sheds connective tissues in the skin. This helps keep pores clear and cuts down on oil production.
Sebum is a natural oil that keeps skin moisturized, but too much oil and dead skin cells can clog pores and cause acne.
Salicylic acid helps acne patients make less oil, makes hyperpigmentation better, and makes sun spots or melasma better.
It can also help to rejuvenate and improve the appearance of the skin, as well as prevent cell growth that leads to skin tumors.
It is especially useful for sun-damaged Skin.
Lactic Acid Peels
Lactic acid is used in many commercial and medical skin care products because it slows down the aging process and reduces pigmentation.
Lactic acid, an alpha-hydroxy acid found in milk, is an anti-aging ingredient (AHA).
Glycolic acid and citric acid are two other examples of AHA.
A lactic acid peel is a chemical peel that gets rid of the epidermis, the top layer of skin.
Stronger formulas can get through the skin’s middle layers and make the skin under the epidermis smoother and brighter.
Lactic acid can be used to reduce hyperpigmentation, age spots, and other skin flaws, as well as even out skin tone and minimize pores.
It has a more gentle effect than glycolic acid, making it a better option for people with hypersensitive skin.
If you’ve tried other AHAs and found them too potent, try lactic acid instead.
Which are the best chemical peels for hyperpigmentation to use on hypersensitive skin?
Lactic acid is a milder AHA, but its “peeling” effects can make skin more sensitive to UV rays.
Every morning, you must put on sunscreen and reapply it as needed during the day.
When using a lactic acid peel, it is important to consult a doctor or dermatologist first if you have naturally dark skin.
One possible side effect of chemical peels is hyperpigmentation.
Different products have different concentrations and ingredients, so their usage instructions should be followed.
2. Medium chemical peels for treating hyperpigmentation
A medium chemical peel is TCA (trichloroacetic acid),
For the best results, use it in solutions with salicylic acid, resorcinol, lactic acid, and ethanol, with higher concentrations of glycolic acid and other light acids.
What is the most commonly used medium chemical peel for treating hyperpigmentation?
However, the most commonly used are trichloroacetic acid (TCA) peels, which can be used in varying concentrations, depending on the severity of the dark spots.
Medium-to-deep TCA peels are excellent for removing dark spots and hyperpigmentation.
A 10–15 percent concentration can be used to treat light hyperpigmentation, while a 20–35% concentration may be needed to treat hyperpigmentation that goes deeper.
Which skin tone is suitable for using TCA?
Because it penetrates more profoundly, it is unsuitable for clients with darker skin tones.
The combined solution has a high success rate in treating melasma and reversing hyperpigmentation.
It also lightens and evens out skin tone, which helps to reduce the appearance of dark patches, age spots, and acne scars.
Most of the time, a concentration of 30%–35% of this mixed solution is used to get a medium-deep peel.
3. Deep chemical peels for treating hyperpigmentation
Deep chemical peels are the most aggressive treatments, with the most side effects and risks but also the best results.
Regardless, these peels are unlikely to be the first choice for treating hyperpigmentation. Unless the problem is very severe, it is always better to do a series of weaker peels than one deep peel.
The most aggressive chemical peel is phenol, also known as carbolic acid.
It works very well to treat severe sun damage, but it can also cause serious problems.
Deep chemical peels contain high concentrations of some of the previously mentioned acids.
Considerations for Choosing the Best Chemical Peel for Hyperpigmentation
A. Skin Type
- Superficial peels are safe for use on all skin types. However, people with darker skin tones are more likely to see a darkening of their skin after treatment.
- Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is the medical term for this phenomenon.
- For people with darker skin, the best thing to do may be to talk to a dermatologist about less extreme ways to stop hyperpigmentation.
- If you fall into any of the following categories, a chemical peel may not be for you: you have a history of unusual scarring on the skin. Incorporate more hues into your scars.
- You may have a skin condition or be taking medication that will increase your sensitivity to the sun. There is no way to avoid the sun while it heals.
B. Depth of Peel
The strength of the peel depends on many things, such as the chemicals used and how much of them are used, how they are applied, the type of skin, and how good the skin is.
In most cases, the results, the rate of healing, and the severity of any potential side effects are all directly proportional to the depth of the peel.
There is no equivalence between the results of multiple light peels and a single deep peel.
C. Cost
It can start from as little as 10 dollars for superficial chemical peels to 6,000 dollars for the most intense professional peels in clinics.
So, what is the best chemical peel for hyperpigmentation?
Mandelic acid peels are one of the best chemical peels for melasma. These peels are non-irritating while providing powerful results.
Light-to-medium-concentration chemical peels is generally thought to be the best chemical peels for hyperpigmentation.
Most of the time, the recommendations are one of the three listed below: Glycolic acid Salicylic acid Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) Each acid has unique properties that make it more suitable for certain skin types than others.
So, because everything is so unique, the best chemical peel is the one that works for your skin. However, the type of acid isn’t the only factor to consider.
and take longer to heal, requiring more care afterward.
Another thing to keep in mind is that, while being well-informed is beneficial, you cannot choose which information to get. During the consultations, your technician will ultimately decide that.
What is the best type of chemical peel according to hyperpigmentation type?
Mandelic acid peels are one of the best chemical peels for melasma. These peels are non-irritating while providing powerful results.
TCA chemical peels are an effective treatment for hyperpigmentation and sun spots. Trichloroacetic peels are strong, so there is some recovery time required, but the strength is adjustable.
However, the strength of the peel will determine how deeply it penetrates the skin. TCA peels can thus be used to treat pigmentation on multiple layers of your skin.
TCA peels help treat sun damage, wrinkles, dullness, and thin skin.
Inflammation is a contributing factor to hyperpigmentation. Skin inflammation, which typically manifests as spots, and skin injuries like cuts or burns are the main causes of this kind of hyperpigmentation.
Furthermore, sun exposure can aggravate this type of hyperpigmentation. TCA peels are also an excellent treatment option for this type of hyperpigmentation.
It even breaks up pigmentation in the skin’s deeper layers, encouraging those cells to migrate to the surface and be shed.
The Most Effective Chemical Peel for hyperpigmentation to treat Dark Skin
When discussing hyperpigmentation caused by a chemical peel, it is important to mention the potential risks of a chemical peel for people with dark skin.
Darker skin types (Fitzpatrick IV–VI skin types) should avoid most chemical peels because they are more prone to hyperpigmentation.
The increased production of melanin makes people more prone to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Because this is the body’s reaction to inflammation, aggressive treatments are more likely to result in additional hyperpigmentation.
Light BHA chemical peels, such as salicylic acid, are the best chemical peels for hyperpigmentation on dark skin among the limited options.
Salicylic acid is gentle and reduces inflammation, so it will lessen any post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation that may happen as a side effect.
Other options include glycolic and azelaic acids, which are gentle and safe enough for darker skin tones while still being effective.
Safety Tips for Chemical Peels for Hyperpigmentation!
If you’ve never done a chemical peel at home before, Dr. Lola has a helpful tutorial: To perform a safe chemical peel, you’ll also need the following tools:
Applying a cream, moisturizer, or sheet mask right after a chemical peel will keep your skin hydrated and help it rebuild its moisture barrier.
To speed up the healing process, look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, panthenol, allantoin, and copper peptides.
Wear sunscreen and avoid direct sun exposure for the next few days because your skin is more sensitive to UV photodamage (which may result in hyperpigmentation!).
Let us talk about the best six at-home chemical peel kits and single effective peels.
We’ve compiled a list of our top picks for the best at-home chemical peel for hyperpigmentation.
These peels are gentle enough for at-home use while still brightening the complexion and improving the appearance of dark spots.
I’ve hand-picked the best at-home chemical peels for hyperpigmentation based on the peeling agent, active ingredients, customer reviews, price/value, and my personal experience.
So you can be confident that you’re getting a high-quality chemical peel for your skin, I only recommend skincare products that I’d use myself (every product here passes this test).
Light Concentration Chemical Peels
Since 1937, tens of thousands of men and women have utilized the Skin Culture Peel, which is safe and effective.
WHAT IT DOES:
The deepest and most comprehensive Skin Culture cosmetic peeling is Peel 4000.
This method yields the best outcomes.
Usage:
Use the Skin Peel Cream for four days and the Normalizer Cream for two. See and feel the stunning effects.
ALL SKIN TYPES It works for all skin types, hues, and issues. For all ages, men and women. After the peel, your face will be clear and younger-looking.
Look 5 Years Younger: The Skin Culture Peel gently removes damaged or old outer skin cells.
The dull, blemished skin is removed and replaced with glowing skin.
Touching your face feels softer and smoother.
Best of all, it appears younger than expected!
Since 1937 We've been in skin health and beauty since 1937, so we know our stuff. For over 83 years, our skin peel has been safe and effective.
This is the MedPeel Medium Strength Chemical Peel Set
It has an Alpha and Beta Hydroxy Acid Face Peel for all skin tones. 20% Salicylic Gel (1 oz), 50% Glycolic Gel (30 ml/1 fl oz)
PROFESSIONAL STRENGTH PEEL:
The downtime for an Alpha Beta medium chemical peel is light to moderate.
HOW TO USE FOR MODERATE PEEL:
Bring about a moderate peeling, like the peeling you get after a middling sunburn
SAFE FOR MOST SKIN TYPES AND TONES:
For people with Oily, Combination, Dry, or Normal skin, our MedPeel product works. Before you peel, please make a test patch. READ EVERYTHING BEFORE YOU DO THE AT-HOME PEEL
This Beta-Clarity AHA cleansing Peel at-home kit detoxifies, decongests, and cleans the skin.
It uses hydroxy acids such as 20% mandelic acid and salicylic acid to remove stains, grease, and open pores in numerous phases.
As a level 2 at-home peel kit, it exfoliates well to reduce pores and fine lines.
Vitamin C improves skin tone and discoloration. In 20 minutes, the skin is cleansed and fortified for a clear, glowing face.
PRO-LEVEL exfoliation removes spots and boosts skin clarity and brightness.
The potent blend of five acids includes 10% salicylic acid., it refines and targets imperfections. This prevents congestion and gives you even, beautiful skin.
The Kit Components:
The Beta-Clarity AHA Clarifying Peel Kit includes a Purifying Gel Cleanser sample packet, a Barrier Balm sample packet, the peel, peel neutralizer, BHA drops, glycolic applicator, two cotton swabs, three 2x2 gauze pads, a mask cup, reusable cotton rounds, and a Glo headband.
MedPeel 70% deep glycolic acid peel kit is for professionals only.
The Peel Prep, Neutralizer, and Hyaluronic Serum set gives you the best results at home safely and easily. Poor for dark-skinned folks.
Excellent anti-aging benefits: For stronger, brighter skin, Glycolic Acid 70% minimizes fine lines and wrinkles, lightens hyperpigmentation, tightens pores, and promotes collagen formation.
NOT LIQUID: Light gel, not liquid, was used to make this peel. This keeps it from touching your eyes, mouth, or face.
Warning/Patch Test:
Yes, do a patch test three days before your peel. Follow the three-step technique on a small region behind your ear or beneath your chin and see how your skin reacts in three days.
How to use and backup time:
70% Peel has a modest recovery time; exfoliates normally after two weeks. Wait three to four weeks before using the peel again.
This is a professionally prepared Salicylic acid peel to reduce spots and balance skin tone caused by environmental factors.
Cucumber and chamomile extracts nourish the skin. Salicylic acid (20%) should be applied after the 10% peel.
Benefits
Clarifies breakouts, blackheads, and skin with regular application.
Salicylic, a powerful pore cleaner, removes debris and dead skin to improve skin breathing.
Natural skin nourishment from Tea Tree Oil and Green Tea Extracts works synergistically.
The chemical peel tightens pores and decreases greasy skin, age spots, and breakouts, rejuvenating your skin.
Flush out the excess oil with our Salicylic Gel Peel, which exfoliates dead skin cells and unclogs pores. Excess oil causes breakouts, whiteheads, and grime.
Soothes skin inflammation: cucumber and Chamomile extracts include antioxidants that protect and rejuvenate skin.
SKIN EXFOLIANT ASSISTS IN SKIN COMPLEXION
This kit includes everything you need to achieve a smoother, more youthful complexion:
- 88% Lactic Acid Peel: A potent exfoliant that removes dead skin cells, reduces fine lines, and improves skin tone.
- Antioxidant Recovery Cream: Soothes and heals skin post-peel with a blend of aloe vera, hyaluronic acid, and vitamins A and E.
Key Benefits:
✅ Deep exfoliation
✅ Reduced fine lines and wrinkles
✅ Improved skin tone and texture
✅ Smoother, more radiant skin
Important Note: This is a full-strength acid. Dilute it with water or witch hazel to match your skin's tolerance level, especially for beginners.
Remember: Always conduct thorough research or consult a dermatologist before using any chemical peel.
How painful are chemical peels for hyperpigmentation?
During the peel, you might feel a slight tingling or stinging, but most people find the pain manageable.
The pain can be mild or strong, based on the type of peel and how sensitive your skin is.
Your doctor will do things to make sure you are comfortable during the process.
How long does it take for a chemical peel to heal?
The time it takes to heal depends on how deep the peel is and how your skin reacts to it.
Most of the time, the peeling and redness go away after a week, and you can go back to your normal routines.
During the healing process, it’s important to follow your dermatologist’s directions and stay out of the sun too much.
Can I get a chemical peel even though my skin is sensitive?
Yes, there are chemical peels that are made especially for sensitive skin. Your doctor will choose a milder peel,
like a lactic acid or mandelic acid peel to treat hyperpigmentation without making your skin feel too bad.
How many chemical peel sessions do you need to treat hyperpigmentation?
How many lessons you need depends on how bad your hyperpigmentation is and what results you want.
In some cases, a single peel is enough to make a big difference, while in others, several peels may be needed.
Your doctor will make a treatment plan just for you based on what you need.
Can chemical peels be done on all different kinds of skin?
Chemical peels can be done on many different kinds of skin, but there are some precautions and things to think about.
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation may be more likely to happen to people with darker skin tones.
It’s important to talk to an experienced dermatologist who knows how to treat different kinds of skin.
Are there any risks or side effects that could come from getting a chemical peel?
Chemical peels are usually safe, but some risks and side effects could happen.
Some of these are redness, peeling, dryness, or slight irritation that only lasts a short time. Sometimes, bigger problems like infections or scars can happen.
But these risks are greatly reduced when you work with a skilled expert and do what they tell you to do after the surgery.
Remember that it’s best to talk to a qualified dermatologist if you have any worries or questions about chemical peels for hyperpigmentation.
A dermatologist can give you personalized advice based on your specific situation.
Conclusion
Hyperpigmentation can make you feel bad about yourself, but with the right treatment, you can get back your healthy glow and even skin tone.
Chemical peels are a strong way to treat hyperpigmentation, and the best peels, like glycolic acid, lactic acid, Mandelic acid, and salicylic acid, can help you see amazing results.
By doing something about hyperpigmentation, you can make your face look better and get your confidence back.
Don’t let dark spots stop you from doing what you want to do. Talk to a dermatologist, learn about your choices, and start your journey to brighter, more beautiful skin.
To increase the power of chemical peels, you should use microneedling to make the skin heal faster and give you the glass skin you wish for. CLICK HERE to know more
2 comments
[…] Chemical Peels: to discover everything about the role of chemical peel in hyperpigmentation removal Click Here […]
[…] you want to know the real secret to perfect skin, you need to use chemical peels like salicylic acid but in higher concentration, to know the full guide to professional skin care […]