Skin Lightening Peels

The superficial peels most frequently used to lighten skin are alpha hydroxy acids (glycolic and lactic acid), beta hydroxy acids (salicylic acid) and trichloroacetic acid (TCA).

TREATMENTS:

Glycolic acid (GA) is the most common alpha-hydroxy acid peel and is also known as a fruit peel. It is simple, inexpensive, and has no downtime. GA peels have anti-inflammatory, keratolytic, and antioxidant effects. For melasma, it is used in concentrations of 30-70%. Sessions are conducted 2-3 weeks apart for a total series of 4-6 treatments.
Lactic acid (LA), which is derived from milk, works by decreasing skin cell cohesion. This type of peel is beneficial for lightening dark spots when used at 92% strength with double coats that are applied for 10 minutes every 3 weeks.
Salicylic acid (SA) has been used to treat various skin disorders for more than 2,000 years. The ability of salicylic acid to exfoliate the stratum corneum (the top layer of skin) makes it a good agent for peeling. Peels in 20-30% strength help eliminate superficial skin pigment. It causes the outermost layer of skin to shed and leaves a smooth post-peel texture. SA has an intrinsic ability to reduce inflammation, making it an especially useful agent for lightening dark spots, as it reduces the chance of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Trichloracetic acid (TCA) is a relative of vinegar and works on the principle of causticity (burning). The higher the concentration, the deeper the penetration, and the more skin cells that will be damaged and removed. At the lower strength of 15%, it can be used as a superficial peel. Sessions are conducted monthly, usually about four in total.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are skin lightening peels?

A skin lightening peel is a skin treatment; which is used to improve and smooth out the surface of the facial skin. A chemical solution is used to remove top layers of skin, which allows the dead surface skin to peel off.

What happens during a skin lightening peel?

During the peel your skin will be cleansed and toned and the chemical peel will be applied to your skin using a gentle brush, the peel will be left on the skin for between three and five minutes, during which time some patients may experience a mild tingling or a mild burning sensation. The procedure is not painful. After the peel a cool compresses may be applied to the skin. Your skin will be moisturized and an antioxidant and a sun screen will be applied to the skin.

What must I do after getting a skin lightening peel?

Post-treatment maintenance with topical formulations and sunscreen is necessary to prevent skin discoloration from recurring. Don’t pick at the skin, as this delays healing and can cause scarring. Use moisturizer to help the skin stay hydrated. Protect the skin from the sun using a broad-spectrum mineral sunscreen, such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide with SPF 30 or greater. Sunscreen should be used concurrently with or prior to the start of your treatment.

Is there any downtime?

Treated areas take about seven to 14 days to heal after a medium chemical peel, but redness might last for months. After a deep chemical peel, you'll experience severe redness and swelling.

When will I see the results?

Treated areas will develop new skin within about two weeks after a deep chemical peel, although redness might last for months.

How long will the results last?

The results of chemical peels can last anywhere from one month to the rest of your life. The longevity of a chemical peel's results depends on several factors, but the most significant factor is the strength of the peel. A light, or superficial, peel produces results that usually last between one and two months.

What are the possible side effects?

Redness, scabbing and swelling. Normal healing from a chemical peel involves redness of the treated skin; Scarring; Changes in skin color; Infection; Heart, kidney or liver damage.

Can everyone with any kind of skin use skin lightening peels?

No, individuals with darkly pigmented skin should be very cautious about having chemical peels. This is because there is a significant chance that the pigmentation of the newly healed skin will be substantially different from their current skin color.

When is it safe to have another skin lightening peel?

Those who just need or want light peels can usually get them every month. For more intense treatments, like medium or peels, it's advisable to wait four or six months in between appointments. Those who wish to get deep peels should only do so once every few years.

What is the safety record for skin lightening peels?

When conducted by a board-certified dermatologist, plastic surgeon, licensed healthcare provider, or trained skin care specialist, chemical peels are exceptionally safe. It’s essential to follow your provider’s postop instructions carefully.