Can You Get a Chemical Peel for Hyperpigmentation?

Dark spots, melasma, and uneven skin tone can feel impossible to treat once they appear, but the right chemical peel can minimize the appearance of hyperpigmentation for a healthier, more vibrant complexion. Join us to learn how chemical peel treatments can transform your skin!

What is a chemical peel?

A chemical peel is a facial resurfacing treatment that removes dead skin cells to reveal a more youthful complexion. 

Types of chemical peels

Most chemical peels are categorized by depth and acid type. For example:

• Light chemical peels: Contain a mild blend of glycolic, lactic, and salicylic acids. They work on the most superficial layers of skin to improve dullness, acne, and slight discoloration. 

• Medium chemical peels: Use stronger solutions, such as trichloroacetic acid (TCA), to penetrate deeper into the skin and treat moderate hyperpigmentation, wrinkles, and acne scars. 

• Deep peels: Include potent chemicals like phenol to reverse deeper wrinkles and severe sun damage. Often performed by a physician, dermatologist, or other healthcare provider in a medical setting. 

Are chemical peels suitable for any skin type?

While there’s a chemical peel for just about any skin type, no single peel will work for everyone. Superficial peels are typically gentle enough for people with sensitive, reactive skin. However,  medium and deep peels may not be suitable for all clients. 

What’s the difference between professional peels and at-home peels?

Most at-home chemical peels are low-strength exfoliation pads and masks that offer gradual results over time. They’re generally safe for most people, but can compromise your moisture barrier if used incorrectly. 

Professional chemical peels, however, are stronger solutions offered by estheticians and dermatologists. They penetrate deeper into the skin and can be customized to your unique needs. Although some cause peeling skin and a lengthy recovery process, others, like our PRX Chemical Peel, deliver transformative results with zero downtime!

Some people find the convenience and low sticker price of a DIY peel attractive, but remember that at-home chemical peels are less effective at best and can burn or damage skin at worst. 

Related: What To Expect From HydraFacials Before and After Treatment

Can a chemical peel treat hyperpigmentation?

A series of chemical peel treatments can be highly effective for hyperpigmentation. Here’s what you need to know:

How peels work to treat hyperpigmentation

Chemical peels take a holistic approach to hyperpigmentation by:

• Accelerating cellular regeneration

• Inhibiting melanin production

• Breaking up existing pigment

• Improving product absorption

Our PRX Peel is a carefully calibrated blend of TCA and hydrogen peroxide to address skin concerns.

What’s the treatment process like?

The treatment process for our PRX Peel starts with a consultation with your provider to discuss your treatment goals, medical history, and cosmetic concerns. After your consultation, your esthetician gently cleanses your skin to remove impurities. Then they apply the PRX solution and massage it into your skin using firm, upward pressure, and repeat the process several times. 

While traditional TCA peels are notably uncomfortable, PRX Peels cause a warm, tingling, or mild stinging sensation as the acid begins working on deeper layers of the dermis. Once the solution is removed, a hydrating moisturizer or post-treatment cream is applied. 

What’s the aftercare process like?

The aftercare process varies based on the type of chemical peel. For a medium-depth peel, you may experience redness, dryness, and peeling for the first three to seven days. During this time, be sure to wear a high-SPF sunscreen and protect your face from direct sun exposure. Stick with a gentle skincare routine and avoid touching or picking at flaking skin. 

Related: HydraFacial Benefits You Should Know About

What’s the best chemical peel for hyperpigmentation?

We already mentioned that no chemical peel works universally for every case of hyperpigmentation. The right solution depends on the type of discoloration, your level of skin sensitivity, and how aggressively you want to approach treatment. Here are a few popular acids to consider:

Glycolic acid (AHA)

Thanks to its small molecular size, glycolic acid can easily penetrate the upper layers of skin where superficial discoloration occurs. Chemical peels with this AHA are a great starting point for folks who are new to topical treatments, as they’re more gentle on the skin and cause few side effects. Glycolic acid peels can effectively treat many types of discoloration, including sun spots, mild melasma, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH).  

Salicylic acid (BHA)

If you struggle with oily, acne-prone skin and PIH, a salicylic acid chemical peel could be the best choice to combat hyperpigmentation. As an oil-soluble acid, it cuts through congestion to clear clogged pores and reduce inflammation, two key drivers of acne-related dark spots. In other words, it can heal active acne breakouts and improve the scars and discoloration they cause. 

Trichloroacetic acid (TCA)

Stubborn hyperpigmentation deep within the skin requires a stronger chemical peel. That’s where TCA comes in. This medium-depth acid targets stubborn pigment and even stimulates collagen production, helping the skin repair itself over time. Found in popular treatments like BioRePeel and our PRX Peel, TCA is a trusted solution that works. 

Experience radiant, glowing skin with PRX chemical peels at Reflection Spa & Brow Art!

The team at Reflection Spa & Brow Art is here to help you achieve your best skin ever! Book a consultation today to get started!