What should you know about dark spots after a chemical peel?

A peel intentionally loosens surface cells, and the healing response can temporarily cause redness, dryness, sensitivity, or darker patches. This is post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation rather than proof that the peel has permanently damaged the skin. Risk can vary with peel depth, ingredients, skin tone, sun exposure, and how much irritation occurs. The original concern, such as acne, melasma, sun-damaged skin, or keratosis pilaris, may also remain visible while the skin recovers.

Follow the treating clinician's instructions, cleanse gently, moisturise, and leave peeling skin alone. Use broad-spectrum sunscreen, shade, and a hat when outdoors. Avoid retinoids, scrubs, waxing, fragranced products, and extra acids until the skin has recovered or your clinician says to restart them. Do not repeat the peel or add glycolic acid on your own. A clinician can decide whether the pigment needs observation, prescription care, or a different approach.

Contact the treating clinic if darkening is accompanied by worsening pain, blistering, open skin, marked swelling, pus, spreading redness, or fever. Seek urgent care for severe swelling involving the eyes or breathing difficulty. Arrange review if the colour continues to worsen, the surface remains raw, or the response is not settling as expected. Keep the peel name, strength, date, and products used available for assessment.

Ask whether the reaction fits normal healing or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, which products to pause, and when to resume them. Ask whether your peel type or skin tone changes future treatment choices and how to reduce irritation during recovery.