Is Chemical Peel Skin Whitening>A trichloroacetic acid (TCA) chemical solution, sometimes in combination with glycolic acid, will be applied to your skin by your doctor using a cotton-tipped applicator or gauze during a medium chemical peel. Whitening of the treated skin is to be expected. Your doctor will then use cool compresses to comfort the treated area after a short waiting period.
A chemical peel can help your skin look younger, smoother, and more even in tone. Chemical peels are generally safe and effective for both men and women, but a skincare expert can help you decide which treatment is best for you. Chemical peeling explained Chemical peels exfoliate the skin, eliminating the top layer of dead skin and dirt that can obscure the skin’s natural glow and clarity. These are the most frequent forms of chemical peels: Hydroxy acid, or alpha (AHA) Alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) lotions and creams are used in chemical peels to exfoliate the skin’s outermost layer. By dissolving damaged collagen under the skin’s surface, AHAs soften fine lines and wrinkles, and by exfoliating deeper layers of tissue, they lighten dark spots, acne scars, and other imperfections that have developed over time.
Chemical peels offer a remedy to areas of the skin that have been damaged due to acne, aging, sun damage and more. The battle against acne can leave the skin full of scars and areas with deep discoloration. Chemical peels contain alpha-hydroxy acids which promote exfoliation of skin dead cells. This process removes the top-most layer of dead cells to reveal newer, healthier ones. Read on to learn more on glycolic acid skin peeling and skin whitening peel treatment.
Is Chemical Peel Skin Whitening
Looking in the mirror and realizing that your skin does not look as vibrant as it did when you were younger can be frustrating. It?s true that you realize that as you age, your skin is going to change. But this does not mean that you have to like or accept the change.
Many people get confused about the difference between brightening vs chemical peels when it comes to skin rejuvenation. Chemical peels are an excellent skin treatment option, especially when you use them in conjunction with other anti-aging products. They help protect your skin from the sun and give you a more vibrant look.
Skin brightening techniques are another option for making your skin look vibrant. Most people want to maintain a bright, radiant complexion. It is a sign of youth. Unfortunately, as we get older, our skin cells turnover at a slower rate. So, you are left with skin that has a dull appearance. What?s worse is if your skin gets dry and you start to see dark circles under your eyes and fine lines. Skin brightening treatments like our Rose Products?Brightening Peel are designed to give your face a vibrant glow. They are designed to remove skin discoloration and melanin production.
When it comes to brightening vs chemical peels, the best treatment for you is going to vary depending on the skin condition that you have and how it should be treated. Something that?s important to explain is that skin brightening techniques are not the same as skin lightening techniques. Skin brightening techniques are designed to reverse the effects of hyperpigmentation. Skin lightening techniques are designed to make the color of your skin lighter.
With a chemical peel, exfoliation is used to remove damaged layers of skin. The end goal is to reveal healthier, younger skin underneath the surface. Depending on the level of damage to the skin, a chemical peel can be used that ranges from very mild to very severe. The stronger the chemical peel, the more pronounced the results.
Skin brightening techniques are generally more gentle than chemical peels. While they produce powerful effects, they do not always produce the same effects that can be attained by a chemical peel. However, this varies from person to person.
Both chemical peels and skin brightening techniques can give us the boost that we need to get our skin looking its best. If you are deciding between brightening vs chemical peels, there is often times no need to make a decision between the two. This is because they may even be used together for optimal results.
Glycolic Acid Skin Peeling
How does a glycolic acid peel work? Glycolic acid peels slough off the surface and middle layers of skin, removing dead skin cells and debris. Since glycolic acid is made up of small molecules, it readily penetrates skin, removing the lipids that hold dead skin cells together.
Glycolic acid peels are the most common alpha-hydroxy acid peels used by dermatologists.
When used correctly, they’re considered safe and cause no downtime for people who get them. To acquire optimal results, you may require several peels over a period of time as determined by a doctor.
Glycolic acid peels have proven benefits in the treatment of several skin conditions:
Acne and acne scars
Glycolic acid peels are effective for removing blackheads, whiteheads, and pimples from skin. They also help to reduce pore size.
Consistent and repeated use of glycolic acid peels have been shownTrusted Source to be effective for removing cystic lesions and acne scars from skin.
Ingrown hairs and scarring
Glycolic acid has been found to be effective for reducing the occurrence of ingrown hairs on the face and body. It also helps reduce the scarring caused by ingrown hairs.
Stretch marks
Stretch marks often start out as red or purple (striae ruba). They tend to fade in color, turning white over time.
Glycolic acid peels stimulate collagen production in the skin, and have been foundTrusted Source to be effective for treating white stretch marks (striae alba).
Dark spots (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation)
Trauma to the skin can result in producing excess melanin, which causes dark spots called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. This type of trauma can result from a number of causes, including overuse of chemical products, acne, and eczema.
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation presents as flat patches that are tan, brown, or black in color. This condition typically resolves completely after the application of 6 to 8Trusted Source glycolic acid peels.
Melasma
Melasma is a type of hyperpigmentation that causes dark patches to form on skin. These patches often occur symmetrically on the face. This condition is also known as cholasma and is common during pregnancy.
In order to optimize effectiveness, glycolic acid is sometimes mixed with other skin lightening ingredients like hydroquinone to treat this condition.
Photoaging
Too much sun exposure can cause premature aging of the skin. This is known as photoaging. Symptoms of photoaged skin include:
- sagging
- wrinkling
- dark spots
Photoaged skin can also appear rough with scaly patches called actinic keratosis. These can become cancerous if they’re not removed.
Mild symptoms of photoaging can often be treated effectively with glycolic acid peels.
Some people have better results when a combination of glycolic acid and trichloroacetic acid (TCA) is used. Severe signs of photoaging, such as deep wrinkles, typically require medical treatment.
Potential side effects
Glycolic acid peels are considered safe for most people. However, they’re not without potential side effects.
Side effects are more likely to occur if acid peels are overused or if they’re applied at high strengths by inexperienced providers.
Sun exposure and cigarette smoking, before and after treatment, may exacerbate side effects.
Potential side effects include:
- eye irritation if the eyes aren’t adequately protected
- skin irritation
- redness that may persist for several days
- a pulling sensation in the skin
- a stinging or burning sensation
- swelling
- changes in skin tone
- reactivation of cold sores
- skin crusts that can become infected if picked
Rare side effects include blisters, scarring, and hypopigmentation (permanent lightening of skin).
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Who can get one?
Glycolic acid peels are considered safe for all skin types.
People with dark skin tones should use mild- to moderate-strength peels only, and should work with a medical or cosmetic professional who specializes in treating dark skin.
People with sensitive skin should use with caution.
Do not use a glycolic acid peel if you have active skin infections, blisters, or a sunburn.
A chemical peel is a technique that utilizes a chemical solution to ‘peel off’ the topmost layer of skin, removing discolorations and promoting new skin growth. Peels can be used to improve the appearance of acne scars, melasma, sun-damaged skin, wrinkles, and several other conditions. They can also be used to lighten dark spots.
Chemical peels for lightening dark spots use chemical agents that enable the removal of the skin pigment melanin. The type of peel, its concentration, the number of coats, and the duration of application are the main factors that influence the effectiveness of treatment. These same factors affect the likelihood of developing adverse effects, such as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). Individuals who have dark skin are at a higher risk of developing PIH and should consult with their dermatologist to determine if a chemical peel is right for them.
The most effective treatments sequence peels with a topical prescription creams. Priming the skin with a topical cream for at least four weeks prior to peeling is an essential part of treatment. The priming ensures uniform penetration of the peel and also reduces the risk of PIH.
What Are The Types Of Chemical Peels?
There are three types of chemical peels. All peels should be combined with topical dark spot treatments to improve efficacy. These topical treatments, also known as bleaching creams contain a combination of ingredients that are applied to the skin to either remove dark patches, such as melasma, or reduce the amount of skin pigment.
Superficial peels
Superficial peels penetrate only the outermost layer of the skin to remove pigment. Superficial peels provide improvement with the least risk of complications. This is because stronger and deeper peeling agents cause more inflammation, which has the potential to worsen pigmentation.
Superficial peels generally take a week or more to heal.
Medium depth peels
Medium depth peels remove the outer and middle layers of the skin to improve the appearance of age spots, skin discoloration, and more. Medium depth peels can be repeated between three and nine months to maintain a clear complexion.
Medium depth peels generally take one to two weeks to heal.
Deep peels
Deep peels remove damaged skin cells in the lower dermal layer of the skin to improve the appearance of sun damage, age spots, and more. These peels require both pretreatment and several weeks’ recovery time. However, the effects of deep peels may last as long as ten years.
Deep peels generally take two to three weeks to heal.
by LILIT GARIBYAN, MD
June 4, 2019
Skin hyperpigmentation refers to several conditions in which areas of the skin become darker than the surrounding areas. Although topical lighteners form the foundation of skin hyperpigmentation treatment, chemical facial peels can bring improved cosmetic outcomes as a complementary and maintenance therapy.
What Are Chemical Facial Peels And How Do They Lighten Dark Spots?
A chemical peel is a technique that utilizes a chemical solution to ‘peel off’ the topmost layer of skin, removing discolorations and promoting new skin growth. Peels can be used to improve the appearance of acne scars, melasma, sun-damaged skin, wrinkles, and several other conditions. They can also be used to lighten dark spots.
Chemical peels for lightening dark spots use chemical agents that enable the removal of the skin pigment melanin. The type of peel, its concentration, the number of coats, and the duration of application are the main factors that influence the effectiveness of treatment. These same factors affect the likelihood of developing adverse effects, such as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). Individuals who have dark skin are at a higher risk of developing PIH and should consult with their dermatologist to determine if a chemical peel is right for them.
The most effective treatments sequence peels with a topical prescription creams. Priming the skin with a topical cream for at least four weeks prior to peeling is an essential part of treatment. The priming ensures uniform penetration of the peel and also reduces the risk of PIH.
What Are The Types Of Chemical Peels?
There are three types of chemical peels. All peels should be combined with topical dark spot treatments to improve efficacy. These topical treatments, also known as bleaching creams contain a combination of ingredients that are applied to the skin to either remove dark patches, such as melasma, or reduce the amount of skin pigment.
Superficial peels
Superficial peels penetrate only the outermost layer of the skin to remove pigment. Superficial peels provide improvement with the least risk of complications. This is because stronger and deeper peeling agents cause more inflammation, which has the potential to worsen pigmentation.
Superficial peels generally take a week or more to heal.
Medium depth peels
Medium depth peels remove the outer and middle layers of the skin to improve the appearance of age spots, skin discoloration, and more. Medium depth peels can be repeated between three and nine months to maintain a clear complexion.
Medium depth peels generally take one to two weeks to heal.
Deep peels
Deep peels remove damaged skin cells in the lower dermal layer of the skin to improve the appearance of sun damage, age spots, and more. These peels require both pretreatment and several weeks’ recovery time. However, the effects of deep peels may last as long as ten years.
Deep peels generally take two to three weeks to heal.
What Are The Ingredients In Chemical Peels For Lightening Dark Spots?
The superficial peels most frequently used to lighten dark spots are alpha hydroxy acids (glycolic and lactic acid), beta hydroxy acids (salicylic acid) and trichloroacetic acid (TCA).
- 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.
Post-Treatment Skincare Tips
Post-treatment maintenance with topical formulations and sunscreen is necessary to prevent skin discoloration from recurring.
In addition to using maintenance creams and sunscreen, ClearifiRx recommends the following post-treatment skincare tips:
- 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.
Skin Whitening Peel Treatment
Chemical peel is a procedure which improves the complexion and smoothens the appearance of the skin on the face, neck or hands. A chemical solution suggested by the doctor will be applied to the damaged skin that intended to remove the outermost layer of skin and eventually peels off.
Chemical peel is a procedure which improves the complexion and smoothens the appearance of the skin on the face, neck or hands. A chemical solution suggested by the doctor will be applied to the damaged skin that intended to remove the outermost layer of skin and eventually peels off. The new generated skin is usually less wrinkled, smoother and brighter than the old skin.
Types of Chemical Peels
- Glycolic Peel: The Glycolic peel has the smallest molecule size and infiltrates the deepest. It’s great for the peeling and revival of maturing skin. Glycolic peels come in various strengths, based upon the result you’re looking for.
- Lactic Peel: Derived from milk, the lactic peel is perfect for skin that is dry or sensitive to dynamic fixings like retinol. In case you’re worried about having an unfavorable response, the Lactic Peel is gentler on the skin.
- Beta Peel: The Beta peel is utilized to treat acne in both younger and older patients. It utilizes salicylic acid to shed the skin, help with oil control, and focus on the bacteria that causes skin inflammation.
- Vitalize Peel: The Vitalize peel incorporates citrus, lactic and salicylic acids, in addition to a retinol layer, to enhance the quality and help the pigmentation of your skin. A Vitalize Peel is superficial with almost no peeling, so this is an extraordinary place to begin for individuals who have never had a chemical peel.
- TCA Peel for Actinic Keratosis: TCA is trichloroacetic acid used to give a medium depth peel to the skin. This treatment can help to remove abnormal skin cells.
LASER is actually an acronym for “Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation”. A laser is a focused beam of light energy that can be used to selectively heat and destroy highly specific targets.
In the case of lightening dark patches on the skin, the targets are known as chromophores, which includes the skin pigment known as melanin. Because melanin absorbs light at a wide range of wavelengths, many different lasers can be used to remove pigmented lesions of the skin. Conservative settings (low energy levels and short pulse durations) should be used during skin lightening laser treatments. Shortening the pulse duration allows for more specific pigment targeting while less heat is created to damage surrounding cells and tissue.
Even with conservative treatment, however, there is a risk of rebound pigmentation and worsening. That’s why lasers are considered second or third line treatment options for skin hyperpigmentation.
What Kind Of Lasers Are Used For Skin Lightening?
There are many types of lasers used for lightening dark patches of skin, each with varying levels of success. No single device is considered best. Test laser treatments of small areas of skin are recommended prior to a full treatment.
The light-based devices most frequently used to treat skin hyperpigmentation are as follows:
Fractional non-ablative lasers (1550/1540nm)
These are the only laser treatments for melasma that have been cleared by the FDA. They have shown good results but still have a risk for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). Fractional non-ablative lasers should not be used on individuals with darker skin types due to high complication rates of post-treatment epidermal burns, increased pigmentation, and recurrence.
Low-fluence Q-switched Nd-YAG laser
While not FDA cleared for the treatment of skin hyperpigmentation, this laser is the most widely studied for the treatment of melasma. Like other light-based therapies, its efficacy improves when combined with topical therapies. Notably, the Nd-YAG laser can be used on individuals with darker skin tones.
Intense pulsed light (IPL)
While not technically a laser, IPL works in much the same way by using high-intensity light to target specific chromophores in the skin, such as melanin. When used in conjunction with other therapies, this treatment improves melasma that is resistant to topical treatment alone.
However, IPL is not ideal for darker skin types as one of the more common complications of this treatment is post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Ablative lasers (CO2 and Er-YAG)
Although reported as effective for some types of skin hyperpigmentation, particularly sun spots and flat seborrheic keratoses, ablative lasers should not be used for melasma or PIH due to the high risk of making hyperpigmentation worse.