Chemical peels for hyperpigmentation: your complete guide!

November 24, 2025
Chemical peels for hyperpigmentation: your complete guide!

If you’ve been battling dark spots, uneven patches, or that “why‑won’t‑my skin just look even?” feeling…you're in good company! 

Hyperpigmentation is one of the most common skincare frustrations we hear about at our med spa. And here’s the good news: a carefully chosen chemical peel might be exactly the reset your skin’s been waiting for.

In this blog, we’ll dive a bit deeper into how a chemical peel can help with hyperpigmentation, what to expect, and how to decide if it’s right for you.

What is hyperpigmentation?

Hyperpigmentation is a long, fancy word that describes what happens when certain areas of skin become darker than the surrounding skin.

This happens because your body produces extra melanin (the pigment that gives our skin its color) in response to factors like sun exposure, hormonal shifts, acne, or injury. 

Over time, the pigment accumulates and can leave behind spots or patches you might feel self‑conscious about. And this affects everyone, yes, including men, not just women.

At Siana, we treat a full spectrum of pigmentation issues, from sun spots and melasma to post‑inflammatory dark marks and uneven tone. The trick is choosing the right peel for your skin’s depth and your specific concern. Our specialty!

How do chemical peels work for hyperpigmentation?

Chemical peels use medical‑grade acids or other solutions to exfoliate the superficial (top) layers of skin. By removing the outer, pigment‑heavy skin cells and encouraging renewal, peels reveal fresher, more evenly toned skin underneath.

Here’s what your typical chemical peel looks like:

  • The aesthetician applies the peel solution to the target area
  • Acids loosen the bonds between dead pigmented skin cells
  • These cells shed over the next days and weeks (along with some of the extra pigment)
  • As skin regenerates, your tone becomes more unified and smoother!

Speaking with your aesthetician and seeking the consultation of a professional is key to understanding if you would benefit from a superficial peel vs. a medium intensity peel.

Why choose a chemical peel for pigmentation?

Here are a few reasons our clients at Siana often opt for a peel when dealing with pigmentation:

  • They offer targeted improvement rather than a general treatment
  • They’re versatile and extremely useful for sun spots and for post‑acne dark marks
  • They pair well with professional skincare products and treatments to amplify results
  • Aftercare and results are impressive when done right

In other words: if your pigmentation isn't responding to just daily topical products and sunscreen alone, a peel can make the difference.

Is a chemical peel right for you?

Here’s how to tell if you’re a good candidate:

Good signs:

  • Dark spots or patches that have lingered despite regular skincare
  • Uneven tone from sun damage or hormonal changes
  • Good overall skin health (no active infections, serious sensitivity, etc.)
  • Willing to commit to sun protection and follow‑up care

Consider with caution or avoid:

  • If you are pregnant or breastfeeding (we’ll guide you to safer alternatives)
  • Have taken isotretinoin (Accutane) in the past 6 months
  • Have active skin infection, open wounds, or extremely sensitive skin
  • Are expecting instant perfection (pigmentation often improves gradually)

At Siana we start every peel with a detailed consultation so we match you with the right strength, schedule, and after‑care plan (because you’re not a “one‑size‑fits‑all” face—and neither is your treatment).

How Siana does it differently

If you’re in the North Shore area and are curious about our Beverly-based med spa, here’s what you can expect from the “Siana difference” we bring to every pigmentation treatment:

  • We use advanced technologies and medical‑grade products tailored to your skin type
  • Every treatment is reviewed by our Medical Director, Dr. Howard Kesselman, for safety and customization
  • We integrate peels with our other services like professional facials, microneedling or skincare product choices from ZO Skin Health to build a multi‑layered plan
  • We treat your pigmentation based on your lifestyle, goals and skin history—not just the “dark spots”
  • Treatments range from $130–160+

Your next step to even‑toned skin

Ready to fade those dark spots and see real skin‑tone improvement? 

We’re here to guide you. Our team at Siana can walk you through your pigmentation type, help you choose the right peel strength, estimate how many sessions you’ll need, and support you through post‑care.

Book your pigmentation consultation today, and let’s find your right peel plan.

And don’t forget to follow us on Instagram @sianaaesthetics for real‑client photos!

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