NIC Esthetician Written ExamTreatment ProceduresMedium
A client with Fitzpatrick skin type III presents with concerns about uneven skin tone and hyperpigmentation due to sun exposure. She is interested in a series of light chemical peels. Which of the following peel types would be MOST appropriate to start with, considering her skin type and concerns?
- AJessner's peel
- BSalicylic acid peel
- CTCA peel
- DGlycolic acid peel
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Glycolic acid peel
Glycolic acid peels are alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) that provide superficial exfoliation, making them a good starting point for addressing uneven skin tone and hyperpigmentation on Fitzpatrick skin types III, with a lower risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation compared to stronger peels.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Jessner's peel (a combination of salicylic, lactic, and resorcinol) is a medium-depth peel and can be too aggressive to start with for Fitzpatrick III, posing a higher risk of PIH.
- B. Salicylic acid peels are beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) primarily for oily and acneic skin, and while they exfoliate, glycolic is often preferred for general brightening and tone on non-acneic skin.
- C. TCA (Trichloroacetic Acid) peels are medium to deep peels that carry a significant risk of complications, including PIH, on Fitzpatrick skin types III and above, and are not a starting point.
Chemical Peel Selection (Fitzpatrick III)
Choosing an appropriate chemical peel for Fitzpatrick skin type III, balancing efficacy for hyperpigmentation with minimizing risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH).
- Start with superficial peels (AHAs)
- Glycolic acid is a common choice
- Avoid strong peels initially to prevent PIH
Memory trick: Gentle acids first for medium skin, then assess for more.