Can you treat melasma with a chemical peel?

Chemical peels are extremely effective in treating melasma and removing discoloration on the skin. When applied to the affected area, chemical peels work not only to lessen the appearance of hyperpigmentation but also to prevent the accumulation of melanin in the skin, which leads to the discoloration on the skin.

Can dermal melasma be removed?

There is no one best treatment for melasma Often, the most effective treatment combines sun protection with medications that you apply to your skin — and sometimes a procedure. If you want to treat melasma, be sure to ask your dermatologist about the cost of treatment.

Can a chemical peel make melasma worse?

Using chemical peels for melasma takes a while — it’s a process that shouldn’t be rushed. By removing the pigment slowly, we prevent the pigment from becoming worse. Strong chemical peels can damage the skin enough that the skin wants to rebound and create more darkness and more pigment.

Can a TCA peel make melasma worse?

Because TCA can be used to penetrate deeply into the skin, it does carry the risk of side effects more serious than those associated with other commonly used chemical peels for melasma, such as glycolic acid. Treated areas can become swollen and crusted for upwards of a week after treatment.

What peel is best for melasma?

“Melasma cannot be cured with any peel,” Dr. Rullan states, but a 30% salicylic peel can be appropriate. He describes it as the “safest peel,” one that provides a “very superficial” level of penetration.

How long until melasma goes away?

Some people may feel embarrassed to allow others to see their skin condition. Fortunately, melasma typically fades after about three months.

What kind of peel is best for melasma?

CHEMICAL PEELS FOR MELASMA IN DARK SKIN

• Alpha hydroxy peels.
• Alpha keto peels.
• Beta hydroxy peels.
• Salicylic mandelic acid peels.
• Trichloroacetic acid peel.
• Jessner’s solution.
• Tretinoin peels.
• Newer peels.

What is the most effective treatment for melasma?

Triple combination cream (hydroquinone, tretinoin, and corticosteroid) remains the most effective treatment for melasma, as well as hydroquinone alone. Chemical peels and laser- and light-based devices have mixed results. Oral tranexamic acid is a promising new treatment for moderate and severe recurrent melasma.

What makes melasma worse?

What causes melasma? There are two main causes of melasma: radiation, whether ultraviolet, visible light, or infrared (heat) light; and hormones. Ultraviolet and infrared radiation from the sun are key in making melasma worse.

What is a TCA Peel?

TCA peels are used to treat acne scars, hyperpigmentation, melasma, fine lines and sun damage. These peels are performed at light or medium strengths and require days or weeks of downtime. TCA is safe for all skin types when the appropriate precautions are taken.

What is the difference between TCA and melasma?

A: TCA and Melasma. Melasma is a very stubborn problem where you must deal with the treatments to alleviate the melasma, but, also prevent new areas from forming and recurrence of the melasma. TCA treatments can have varying strengths. The lower the percentage, the weaker the peel and the less deep the peel will penetrate.

What is chemical peeling for melasma?

CHEMICAL PEELS FOR MELASMA Chemical peeling is the application of a chemical agent to the skin, which causes the controlled destruction of a part or of the entire epidermis, with or without the dermis, leading to exfoliation and removal of superficial lesions, followed by the regeneration of new epidermal and dermal tissues.[17]

How do you remove TCA from the skin?

Once the desired number of layers have been applied, the provider will remove the TCA from the skin and apply a cool compress for several minutes, followed by a protective ointment. A TCA peel does not require a neutralizing solution.