So you did a recent peel application and you got burnt? They are series of reasons why this could happen which could be as a result of: Application of high concentration of peel Deep peel penetration Skin is thinner and fragile before peel application Use of harsh skin products before peel application. Wrong peel application Skin wasn't prepped properly before peel application. Peeling solution was left on the skin for too long. Chemical peels uses an acid as peeling agent to remove dead skin cells by breaking down the bonds that hold the dead skin cells together. The peel application according to intensity could be mild, medium or deep. Deep peels are high intensity peels that may require high concentration or more layers of peel applications but this can also result in higher risk of complications. If the acid peel is applied on the skin, it will continue to burn off the dead skin for as long as it is left on the skin except a neutralizing agent is used to stop the process. Some peels like Tca are self neutralizing, this means they will stop working on their own after the job is done and this is why it is important to do a patch test to know how much concentration and how many layers of peels your skin can take. Our skin changes as we age, you may have successfully done a Tca peel years ago and decide to try again years later and you get burn, this is an example of your skin changing as a result of daily environmental factors , biological factor, your current skin care routine, etc. Do a patch test to know what your skin can handle at that point in time. If you are doing a peel on stretch mark to regenerate collagen fibers around that area, it is very important to understand that this area has undergo tear and won't be like a normal skin tissue. Test with a lower strength peel and work your way up or reduce the number of layer application if using higher concentration which are more effective but prone to causing chemical burn. How chemical peel occurs. When peel is applied,the acid causes an inflammation in the skin tissue which stimulates collagen production and encourages cellular regeneration . When the acid burns to high or for a long time, it increases the inflammation on the skin and cause the skin to becoming extremely sensitive to the sun. The treated area penetrates too deep and turns pale pink before turning dark as a result of sensitivity which increases the melanin production around that area. This leads to post inflammatory hyperpigmentation . Treating this hyperpigmentation could be difficult but not impossible depending on the depth of the pigmentation. How to fix burns from chemical peel. If you think your skin may have been burnt by a chemical peel, the first thing to do is to halt the inflammation so it doesn't progress further. Apply Aloe Vera gel immediately after the peel application to sooth the skin and if you still feel inflammation or burning sensation, apply any hydrocortisone cream or cortisone steroid cream. If hydrocortisone cream isn't working for you, get demovate cream from the pharmacy as that seems stronger. Apply the steroid cream 2-3times daily until the inflammation calms down. By the next day or so, the area may appear dark especially when using TCA peel.. After the area darkens, it will start to peel few days later. The peeled area may appear pinkish , you need to apply hydrocortisone or any steroid cream of your choice on this area as this area is still inflammed and highly sensitive.. This means it could turn dark in few days if left untreated. Also don't forget to apply your moisturizer and sunscreen afterwards, most preferably a soothing and hydrating moisturizer. Avoid sun during this period or protect your skin from exposure to the sun as your skin is in a sensitive state and could darken over night. After skin has peeled, you want to control pigment production so the inflammation doesn't stimulate more hyper melanin pigment production which could cause a dark patch that could lead to hyperpigmentation. To do this, apply a Depigmenting cream that effectively prevents melanin production during the healing period. If your skin has already darkened and lead to hyperpigmentation, give your skin few days and start Depigmenting the hyperpigmented area. Apply a thin layer of Tretinion gel then followed by any Depigmenting product of your choice. This should help you fade off the post inflammatory hyperpigmentation caused by the peel burn. Note: If your burn is very severe, you will need to visit a doctor to treat for burns to avoid infection.

Guidenote for treating face and body #hyperpigmentation. Firstly, it is important to note that only one product won’t give you the result you need when it comes to treating hyperpigmentation on the epidermal skin layer For pigment reduction to occur on the skin, they have to be series of events to make that process successful. Synergy will play a big role based on the theory about the molecular interaction between different ingredients mutually for the purpose of enhancement , creating a combined effect to boost different skin treatments. Guide to treating body spots: -Hydrate and moisturize skin. -Exfoliate treatment area. -Induce rapid cell renewal process. -Depigment excess melanin build-up. -Eliminate inflammation. -Strengthen skin barrier. -Sun protection. Note: Do not recommend prescription/products to a client based on general approach. Recommendation should be based on your client’s current skin condition. All skin are not same as some factors can determine skin status of an individual; -Location and its climate condition. -Environmental impact on skin -Previous Skincare routine -Skin permeability rate -Health history -Allergies -Natural oil & Water Level These factors should be considered before recommending products to your clients. General Recommendaction For spot treatment : When fading spots formed from acne formation, you want to consider a product that will help you speed up cell replacement. Thwill fast track the process of treating the spots within a short time. When the old cells stained with excess pigment is replaced by new healthy cells, then the left over pigment is faded off with a Depigmenting agent. Depigmenting agents are active agents on skin care products that help fade off melanin pigment from the skin gradually. These Depigmenting agents are group based on their mechanism or mode of action. Also in terms of action, they are rated in different strength . Examples of Depigmenting agents used for fading hyperpigmentation includes; Hydroquinione, kojic acid, Alpha arbutin, Azelaic acid, licorice, Mequinol, etc. They are many other actives but among these but based on experienc, these are would be on my top list based on their strengths. For severe ans stubborn hyperpigmentation, I would prefer a product with Hydroquinione as it is strong enough to clear off those spots, melasma and hyperpigmentation within a short time as compared to the others. An alternative to Hydroquinione would be Azelaic acid or kojic acid as this help very effectivemy in clearing spots and hyperpigmentation. Also combination of 2 or more depigmenting agents in a formulation also help to increase the effectiveness of the product. Like a product that has both kojic acid and arbutin inside. Examples of Cellular renewal ingredients in skin care products includes; Glycolic acid, tretinion, Lactic acid, Mandelic acid, Etc. Some products are formulated with a cell renewal and depigmenting agent , for example a cream with Tretinion and Hydroquinione or a gel with glycolic acid and kojic acid. I would recommend this Epidermal Depigmenting cream for the treatment of facial hyperpigmentation as it can clear acne spots, melasma, dark patches, etc. Can also be used for treating dark thighs , dark armpit, etc. It contains 5% Hydroquinione and 2% kojic acid as its active ingredient. Pair with Tretinion gel to enhance result so as to get result within a short time. For individuals looking for a stronger option for body hyperpigmentation like body spots, dark patch from laser treatment or surgery. Quinol 10 cream with 10% Hydroquinione and retinoic acid as its active ingredients. It can help with body hyperpigmentation like dark thighs, hands and feets, under arm, etc. If using on the face, it is advisible to only apply on the dark area only so the dark area can lighten up to blend out with the rest of the skin area. A typical example of a hyperpigmentation routine would be done like as stated below (night routine only). After shower at night:

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Salicylic acid peels are treatments used to deeply exfoliate the surface layers of the skin at a pore level. This BHA breaks the bonds that hold the skin's cells together, causing them to shed away or peel depending on the concentration used. Skin is rejuvenated after skin regeneration process is complete. In skin care, salicylic acid offers the following benefits: Compared to other types of chemical peels, salicylic acid is a superficial Peel that provides a gentle exfoliating action Which makes it safer for use at home. For advance level, stronger salicylic acid peels at higher concentration which penetrates more deeply are usually administered by professionals. HOW TO USE SALICYLIC ACID PEEL. Salicylic acid peel comes in different concentrations. Making a choice on what concentration will be determined by what treatment and the current skin‘s status. Once the preferred concentration has been purchased and ready for use, you want to make sure that your skin is thoroughly cleansed. The skin is degreased with alcohol or an astringent that gets rid of excess oil on the skin and petroleum jelly is applied on sensitive areas like nostrils, etc. After, the salicylic acid solution is applied to the skin with cotton pads or applicator brush. Total application depends how strong the peel should be, the application is done in layers where after one application of the solution is layered on top of the other within few seconds to mins. The solution is left on your skin for about three to five minutes. Some individuals may feel some mild burning or stinging while some feel nothing. After the time is up, the peel is neutralized with water or a neutralizing solution. To make a neutralizing solution, make a 20% sodium bicarbonate solution with water. After neutralizing the acid, a mild cleanser may be used to wash off the left over solution and then a moisturizer is applied. Note that Salicylic acid is a superficial peel, meaning not everyone will experience peeling from salicylic acid but it is sure to soften, brighten the face and visibly reduce excess oil productions which result to decrease in acne formaction. For more severe skin issues, series of peels session is needed mostly once or twice in a week application depending on your desired result. If using Salicylic acid peel for tough areas like hands, knuckles , feet, etc, you will need to apply the salicylic acid for 3 consecutive days so enough amount of the peel is absorbed by the skin to cause peeling. USING SALICYLIC ACID FOR MOLE AND WART REMOVAL To achieve this, within 20-30% Salicyclic acid is used. The area is cleansed and the salicylic acid solution is applied on the wart or mole growth 1-2 times daily until when the wart/mole scabs and fall off. You don’t need to wash off except you feel discomfort. This application period is usually around within 1-5weeks depending on individual cases. After the growth has fallen off, the area may appear reddish but will fade off on its own, to avoid darkening on that area, apply hydrocortisone to halt the inflammation which in turn will control melanin over production.

AHAs works by loosening the bonds between damaged skin cells on the surface of your skin, and sloughing them off to reveal newer and healthier skin. Mandelic acid is known to be an effective AHA (alpha hydroxy acid) which helps in exfoliating dead skin cells and revealing fresh smooth skin underneath. The acid works like a gentle peel because of its large molecules, It helps remove the top layer of your skin in a gentle way, and can be a great addition to your everyday routine. This is an exfoliating peel which provides the following benefits: - Skin brightening -Acne control -Cellular turn over boost - Reduction hyperpigmentation & blemishes -Collagen boost to reduce wrinkle and fine line formation. HOW TO USE Chemical exfoliants can make your skin sensitive to the sun which makes them best used at nighttime routine. Start with a lower concentration of mandelic so your skin adjust gradually as you progress into a stronger concentration. Mandelic acid peel can be used once weekly. Before using the acid on your face, do a patch test in the inner arm or the back of the ear at least 24 hours before to see how your skin tolerates the product. (very important). Step 1- If you are treating hyperpigmentation, step one is very important. For about 2-3wks, skin should be prepped with a mild exfoliant and a Depigmenting product of choice. Step 2- Check fir allergies and irritation by doing a patch test. Step 3- Skin should be properly cleansed and degreased. Step 4- Using applicator of your choice, apply the Mandelic acid on the face from up to down. Step 4- Allow peel to stay on skin for within 2-5mins depending on your skin tolerance. You can choose to apply more layers of the peel Solution depending on your skin’s tolerance. watch out for redness snd and excessive stinging. Wash off product with water to neutralize. Make your neutralizer by adding baking soda to your rinsing water before rinsing your face as this stops the whole process. Pat skin dry and apply your moisturizer. During this period, it is important to avoid sun exposure as AHA makes the skin photosensitive. Just because you do not see any visible flaking does not mean the peel isn’t working. You will know the peel worked if your skin feels brighter and smoother as Mandelic acid’s job is to dissolve the bond that holds the outermost layers of dead skin. When the bond is dissolved, the dead cells falls off freely. If you are looking for a peel with visible peel effect, you may want to try other kinds of chemical peel.

You are here because you want to learn about how TCA application is done on dark skin. The key difference between black and white skin is based on the type of melanin produced. Black skin contains eumelanin while white skin produces pheomelanin. Black skin population has a high count of melanocytes which are larger in size. This is a factor to be considered during application of TCA. When TCA is applied on to skin, it causes protein coagulation and denaturation as it penetrates the skin. The coagulation involves proteins that make up the cells of the epidermis and dermis, as well as the blood vessels (depending on depth of penetration). Once it penetrates the skin, it cannot be neutralized as it self-neutralizes once it is has coagulated a certain amount of protein. During this process, an inflammation occurs which triggers the skin repair/regenation process after which the skin peeling is observed. The inflammation can causes redness, pains, itchy and sometimes swellings which last for hours to few days. This same inflammation that triggers regeneration, may also trigger large amount of melanin production that are deposited on the inflammed area and this leads to formation of post inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). This is mostly experienced in dark skin because of the anatomy of the melanocytes ( the cell responsible for producing melanin pigment). Despite these, a dark skin can still achieve excellent result if the application process is properly done. To solve this , proper prepping needs to be done before TCA peel is applied on the skin. TCA peel is like a tool, result depends on how best it is used. It is not the “one size fit all” kind of treatment. Different skin will respond differently as we all have different kind of skin; An oily skin will respond differently, A dry skin will respond differently, A sensitive skin will respond differently A fairer skin will respond differently A darker skin will respond differently. The current conditions of your skin will determine the result you get. You need to consider; 1) if you have been using products which thins out your skin, 2)have you been using products that disrupt your skin barrier, 3) is your skin very thin or thick, 4)have you done a peel before, 5) is your skin properly exfoliated 6) do you have an skin infection 7) product penetration on skin. Before a doctor treats a wound, he has to stop the bleeding, same applies to TCA application on dark skin. Before application, the melanocytes cells producing melanin should be put on halt mode so when inflammation is triggered in the skin by the peel, it reduces the chance of PIH. By doing this, a depigmenting agent is used around the treated area for minimum of 3weeks , this keeps production of melanin at a minimum so it doesn’t participate in the process. Also for even penetration, it is advising to keep the skin layer ready to receive the peel by exfoliating the treated area with mild AHA solution. This is to take off the dead skin that may interfere with the even penetration and also soften the skin for increased penetration instead of letting the peel just burning through the dead skin without making it deep into the skin. Another way of preparing the skin is through the use of Tretinion. Tretinion helps in treatment of hyperpigmentation, it helps to restore fast rate of cell renewal for those old cells that haven’t been replaced by new cells thereby slowing down exfoliation process of the skin. Tretinion also helps to thicken the epidermal skin layer and this will help those thinned skin clients whose skin has been thinned by using bad skin care products. The skin prepping process takes roughly about 2-4wks to complete and then a break period of about two days is needed before the main peel applicatio. On application day, the skin is cleansed and oil free as oil can interfere with result. Make sure you wipe off oil with alcohol and let it dry out. What you need for the procedure would be; Gloves TCA peel Cotton wool / Applicator brush Water Baking soda Depigmenting agent Moisturizer Sunscreen Step 1: Numb skin if you can’t bear the stinging effect but this is optional. Step 2: Wear your gloves to avoid the peel touching your hands so you don’t experience peeling on your hands. On the cleaned skin, apply a layer of the TCA peel and wait few secs for the peel to be absorbed. Step 3: After few seconds, apply another layer of a deeper penetration of the TCA solution Step 4: Watch your skin and read it to find a reaction. By now you should start to experience some stinging sensation and started noticing some whitish frosting going on with your skin. Step 5: Use a fan to cool the area so as to reduce the stinging sensation. Step 6: Note that the more solution that penetrates your skin would determine how deep you will peel. Check your skin to see if it can take a 3rd layer application. If it can, then add one more layer. Also if you are trying to peel hard areas like knuckles, feet, hands, etc, you may need to apply minimum of 3layers depending on what concentration and how deep you want to peel. Step 7: By now, around 2-5mins you should be ready to wash off the peel. The TCA molecules that has penetrated the skin will keep coagulation process going and neutralize itself when completed but you can wash off and neutralize the acid molecules which are still on the surface with a base solution. Mix good amount of baking soda in a bowl of water and use to rinse the skin then rinse with clean water Step 8: Clean skin dry, apply your depigmenting cream, your moisturizer and lastly your sunscreen. The process should last within 5mins and then you are done. You don’t need to do the application everyday. Just once application and then wait to peel within 7-10days depending on the thickness and dryness of the treated area. The face peels faster as it s thinned and it produces more oil compared to the other parts of the body. For choice of moisturizer, a moisturizer that increase and lock down skin water content (hydration) or/and any oil that promotes cell growth/repair will be great idea. A choice of moisturizing cream would be one that contains urea as urea is a humectant that increase skin water level which is highly needed as the peel strips up moisture from the skin which we have to restore back to help the regeneration process. A choice of moisturizing oil would be emu oil as it helps to promote cell growth and helps with skin repairs. It speeds up the recovery process of the skin cell regeneration and very moisturizing. What to expect After a TCA peel application After your peel application, next day you will feel tightness and dryness around your skin. The severity of the tightness depends on how deep the peel penetrated. Also you will noticed your skin is getting darker which is normal as the skin needs to die off to shed away so new ones can take their place. Shedding should starts from 4th day but that depends on what part you peeling. Knuckles and feet could take longer time so don’t panic if you don’t see any peeling signs within a week. During peeling, you are not allowed to force peel, allow the skin to raise up on its own so it can raise along with the blemishes on the top skin. During this recovery period, your skin will be sensitive to anything and your result with be determined by the aftercare you introduce. Lot of moisture is needed to help the skin recovery process. While the new cells are migrating to the top epidemal layer, pigments also will need to migrate to the top to be distributed evenly. With exposure to the sun, the melanin distribution could be uneven which could form hypopigmentation or hyperpigmentation so you want to stay away from the sun, also from products that could Inflamme the skin and cause it to produce more melanin. This could cause the area to redarken. On the new skin, apply your depigmenting agent , something to control the pigment production through out the recovery period of 1mnth. Your skin could look all patchy and uneven but with time it gets back to normal. With proper application and care, excellent results could be achieved otherwise individual could develop hyperpigmentati and sometimes scarrings. If you didn’t get the best result, you can always try again a month after.