Question: What does the four-week “skin-prep” for a deep chemical peel consist of and why is it necessary?
Answer: The skin needs to be prepped before a deep chemical peel or a deep CO2 or Erbium Laser resurfacing in order to suppress the activity of the Melanocytes. Melanocytes produce pigment and with any deep chemical peel or Laser these cells can become irritated leading to a condition known as “PIH” or post inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Using Hydroquinone 4% for at least 4 weeks prior to the chemical peel or CO2 laser decreases chances of PIH.
