Melasma Peel

Up to
33% of people
will get melasma
Melasma affects between
15% and 50%
of pregnant women
Melasma will
not cause
itchiness, pain, or discomfort
Chemical peels have been
proven to help
manage and treat melasma

What is a melasma peel?

A melasma peel is a type of chemical peel commonly used to treat melasma, a skin condition that causes patches of brown or gray skin on the face, arms, back or chest.

Considered a “controlled injury” to the skin, the peel is a type of topical mask that uses medical-grade acids to exfoliate the outer layer of skin (known as the epidermal layer). The acids react with dead skin cells, which causes the skin, including the unwanted melanin causing the dark patches, to peel. The peel also stimulates collagen production in the skin, which results in a lighter and brighter appearance.

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What types of chemical peels are used to treat melasma?

Depending on your skin type, the skincare experts at Forefront Dermatology may use various types of chemical peels to treat your melasma:

  • Trichloroacetic acid: Often preferred for patients with lighter skin, a TCA peel is a strong, medical-grade peel that uses an acid derived naturally from acetic acid. However, TCA peels may not be as effective for melasma found in deeper levels of the skin.
  • Glycolic acid: This is a type of superficial peel that causes the top layer of damaged skin to slowly peel away over the course of a week to 10 days.
  • Salicylic acid: A common chemical used to treat acne, salicylic acid has been used as a skin treatment for more than 2,000 years. Its anti-inflammatory properties also decrease the chance you’ll develop any hyperpigmentation after treatment.
  • Jessner’s solution: A mix of lactic acid, salicylic acid and resorcinol, a Jessner peel can be used in various levels of strength, depending on the severity of your melasma.
  • Tretinoin: Also known as retinoic acid, this peel is used on various skin conditions, including acne, wrinkles, rough skin, and dark spots. In addition to keeping your pores clear, it also works by lightening the skin and replacing old skin cells with new ones.

How effective are chemical peels on melasma?

Especially when they’re used with other melasma treatments, chemical peels can be an extremely effective way to not only eliminate skin discoloration but also prevent future patches. Because these peels exfoliate the outer layer of skin and help the body produce new skin cells, chemical peels remove the excessive pigmentation and may prevent the further production of new dark spots.

Because these treatments stimulate the production of new skin cells, they can also reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Who is a candidate for a melasma peel?

Melasma peels are suitable for many individuals but are particularly effective for those with mild to moderate cases of melasma. Ideal candidates:

  • Have generally healthy skin without active infections or severe acne
  • Have discoloration caused by sun exposure, hormonal changes, or pregnancy (commonly referred to as “the mask of pregnancy”)
  • Have tried other treatments, like topical creams, without achieving desired results

Your dermatologist will assess your skin condition and treatment goals before recommending a treatment plan.

What happens during a melasma peel treatment?

The process begins with a consultation at your local Forefront Dermatology practice where you’ll discuss your options, as well as any medications or skin care products you’re currently using.

The doctor will apply the chemical peel to your skin, which usually stays on the skin for only a few minutes. This will start the process of exfoliation and trigger skin cell regeneration and the body’s natural healing process. You may experience some discomfort during the process. Small pieces of skin may begin to shed, and healing may take five to seven days, depending on the depth of the peel. Treatments are usually scheduled four to six weeks apart.

What results can be expected?

Melasma peel treatments typically result in a noticeable reduction in dark patches and an overall brighter, more even complexion. Improvements can often be seen after the first treatment, and most patients require multiple treatments for the best results.

Long term benefits include smoother skin, a reduction or elimination of discoloration, and reduced appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

To ensure a safe and effective procedure, it is important to seek chemical peel treatments from a board-certified dermatologist to ensure a safe and effective procedure. If you are considering a melasma peel to treat dark patches of skin, book a consultation at your local Forefront practice and let one of our skin care experts recommend a treatment plan tailored specifically to your needs.

Interested in a melasma peel treatment? Find a Forefront location near you today.

Interested in Melasma Peel? Request a consultation with a skin specialist today.

*Treatment options may vary at each location.
Please confirm your desired treatment is offered at your preferred location when scheduling. *Age Restriction.
For patients scheduling who are under 18 years of age (19 in Alabama and Nebraska) please make sure you have permission from your parent or legal guardian to schedule this appointment.  Your parent or legal guardian must accompany you on your initial visit and on certain subsequent visits to provide appropriate informed consent.

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