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Can Professional Peel Reduce Hyperpigmentation?

January 31 2023

While some people see freckles and other skin coloration differences as unique and beautiful, others find these features of their skin distressing. Having discolored spots on your skin can be damaging to your self-esteem. These dark spots on your skin are called hyperpigmentation which can come in the form of freckles, scars, age spots, and liver spots. If hyperpigmentation is making you feel self-conscious you may be looking for ways to lighten the discoloration and even out your skin tone. Could professional chemical peels be the answer you’re looking for? Let’s take a closer look at hyperpigmentation and ways to reduce it.

The Cause of Hyperpigmentation

Hyperpigmentation results from an excess of melanin in certain areas of your skin that make those areas appear darker. Melanin is the pigment that gives your skin its natural color. Sometimes your body produces too much of this pigment and it clumps together causing the dark spots that you are seeing.

Anyone of any age or ethnicity can be affected by hyperpigmentation. The appearance and coloration of the spots can vary from person to person ranging from pink to gray, black, red, or most commonly brown. There are many things that can contribute to this overproduction and clumping of melanin such as sun damage and certain medical conditions, but the underlying cause is damage to your skin cells. Thyroid disorders, certain vitamin deficiencies, hormonal changes, and imbalances, disorders of the adrenal glands, certain medications, and genetics can all play a role in the development of hyperpigmentation. Injuries to your skin from cuts, scrapes, burns, and acne can also cause scarring and excess melanin.

What Are Chemical Peels?

Chemical peels are aesthetic skin treatments that use a mixture of chemicals, typically botanical acids, and extracts, to cause the outer layer of your skin to peel away. This exposes the newer, brighter skin underneath. This fresh skin displays fewer imperfections leaving you with an improved and more even skin tone. Chemical peels don’t just help correct hyperpigmentation. They can improve other skin issues as well. Professional peels can help improve skin texture, brighten your complexion, fade acne scars, and diminish fine lines and wrinkles. In addition to resurfacing your skin, chemical peels also cause your body to increase the production of collagen and elastin, the substances that give your skin its elasticity and preserve its youthful look.

How Chemical Peels Reduce Hyperpigmentation

No matter if your hyperpigmentation is pink, black, red, or brown a chemical peel will help reduce the discoloration by resurfacing your skin. Exposing fresh new skin accelerates cellular turnover and skin cell renewal to replace damaged hyperpigmented cells. Over time the areas of discoloration fade more and more. To achieve the desired results most people will need 4-6 light peel spaces 1-2 months apart. Any underlying health conditions will need to be treated by your healthcare provider to keep the hyperpigmentation from returning.

Caring For Your Skin After A Chemical Peel

Following a professional chemical peel your skin will be red, tender, and sensitive. Recovery time can be a few days to a few weeks, depending on the level of your peel. Deeper peels take longer to heal. You may find that immediately after the peel the hyperpigmentation looks worse, but once your skin has recovered from the peel you will see an immediate improvement in the hyperpigmented areas. As your skin is healing you will want to avoid touching your face and keep your hair gently pulled back. After your peel, you should moisturize as directed with the product your esthetician recommends, but don’t overdo it. Too much moisturizer can prevent the skin from peeling properly. Avoid sun exposure as much as possible and use a high SPF (30 is the minimum)) if you do have to be out in the sun. Minimize sweating as well as it can cause stinging and irritation. And remember not to pick at the peeling skin. As the skin sloughs off it can be tempting to help it along, but you could cause more damage to your skin and defeat the purpose of the peel.

If you’re looking to improve the appearance of your skin and reduce hyperpigmentation through professional chemical peels, the licensed estheticians at Helen’s Haven Integrative Medical Spa can help. We will evaluate your skin and level of hyperpigmentation and set up a schedule of peels to help you achieve the soft, beautiful skin you’ve been desiring for so long. You will find us at 4819 Ave., #6 in Honolulu, or call 808-739-0400 to schedule your appointment today. You can also book your appointment on our free mobile app, available for download on iTunes or Google Play.

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Can Professional Peel Reduce Hyperpigmentation?

January 31 2023

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