Chemical peels can help improve superficial hyperpigmentation by removing dull surface skin and encouraging a brighter, more even-looking complexion. However, the best peel depends on your skin type, sensitivity and the cause of your pigmentation.

Quick guide:

• Glycolic acid: Best overall option for dark marks, dullness and uneven texture.
• Mandelic acid: A gentler option for sensitive or acne-prone skin.
• Lactic acid: Suitable for dry, dull or easily irritated skin.
• TCA: A stronger option for stubborn pigmentation that requires extra caution and professional guidance.

Chemical peels can treat certain forms of skin discolouration, but they may also worsen pigmentation when they irritate or injure the skin.

Glycolic acid peel

Glycolic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid that exfoliates the skin and helps remove accumulated dead surface cells.

It may be suitable for:

• Post-acne dark marks.
• Uneven skin tone.
• Dullness.
• Rough texture.
• Mild signs of sun damage.

Research supports glycolic acid peels for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and post-acne marks. In one comparative study, glycolic acid produced greater improvement in post-acne pigmentation than lactic acid, although both treatments were effective.

Best for: People looking for an effective all-round peel for pigmentation and texture.

Consider: Glycolic acid may cause irritation when used too frequently or at an unsuitable strength.

Mandelic acid peel

Mandelic acid is generally chosen when a gentler approach to exfoliation is preferred.

It may help improve:

• Post-acne dark marks.
• Mild breakouts.
• Congestion.
• Uneven texture.
• Dull-looking skin.

Studies have found mandelic-containing peels effective for acne and associated hyperpigmentation, with good tolerability.

Best for: Beginners and people with acne-prone or easily irritated skin.

Consider: Results may be more gradual than with stronger treatments.

Lactic acid peel

Lactic acid is another alpha-hydroxy acid that exfoliates while supporting a softer, smoother-looking complexion.

It may be suitable for:

• Dry or dehydrated-looking skin.
• Mild pigmentation.
• Dullness.
• Uneven surface texture.
• Skin that does not tolerate stronger exfoliation well.

Clinical studies have shown that lactic acid peels can improve melasma and post-acne pigmentation, although glycolic acid may provide stronger results for some concerns.

Best for: Dry, dull or sensitive skin requiring gentler exfoliation.

Consider: It may take several correctly spaced treatments to see noticeable improvement.

TCA peel

Trichloroacetic acid, commonly called TCA, is a stronger peeling agent that may penetrate more deeply depending on its concentration and application.

It may be used for:

• Stubborn superficial pigmentation.
• Blotchy skin tone.
• Sun damage.
• Rough texture.
• Certain fine lines.

TCA has shown effectiveness for pigmentation, including melasma, but it carries a greater risk of burning, prolonged irritation and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

Best for: More experienced users or professionally supervised treatment of stubborn pigmentation.

Consider: TCA is not the best first peel for sensitive skin or beginners.

Which chemical peel should you choose?

Choose glycolic acid when your main concerns are dark marks, dullness and uneven texture.

Choose mandelic acid when you have acne-prone skin, mild pigmentation or want to begin with a gentler option.

Choose lactic acid when your skin is dry, dull or easily irritated.

Consider TCA only when stronger treatment is appropriate and you understand the increased risk and downtime.

The acid name alone does not determine how strong a peel will be. Concentration, application time, number of layers, formulation and individual skin sensitivity can all influence the treatment’s depth and safety.

Chemical peels and darker skin tones

People with melanin-rich skin can use chemical peels, but excessive irritation may cause new dark marks or worsen existing pigmentation.

Avoid using the strongest peel available simply because you want faster results. The American Academy of Dermatology advises people who easily develop dark marks after inflammation to avoid aggressive exfoliation.

Melasma also requires special care. Although peels may improve superficial melasma, irritation can make the condition worse. A dermatologist should assess persistent, widespread or recurring facial pigmentation.

Essential chemical peel aftercare

After treatment:

• Use a gentle cleanser.
• Apply a simple moisturiser.
• Wear broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher every day.
• Do not pick or pull peeling skin.
• Avoid retinol, exfoliating acids and facial scrubs.
• Avoid waxing, microneedling and other intensive treatments.
• Allow your skin to recover completely before using another peel.

Sunlight and visible light can contribute to continued darkening, especially in deeper skin tones. A tinted sunscreen containing iron oxides may provide additional protection against visible light.

Final verdict

For most people treating superficial hyperpigmentation, glycolic acid is the strongest all-round choice, while mandelic and lactic acid offer gentler alternatives.

TCA may help stubborn pigmentation but has a higher risk of irritation and should be approached cautiously.

Whichever peel you select, consistent sunscreen use, correct aftercare and patience are essential. Dark marks usually fade gradually rather than disappearing after a single treatment.

Explore the Supple Skin chemical peel range and select a treatment suited to your skin type and experience level. Always read the complete product instructions before use.

*Disclaimer: This information is for skincare education and does not replace medical advice. Strong chemical peels can cause burns, wounds, swelling, scarring and changes in skin colour when used incorrectly. The FDA advises that potent peel products should only be considered with appropriate professional supervision. *