Vitiligo and chemical peels: a professional approach

Depigmentation is not uneven tone

Vitiligo involves loss of melanocytes and requires medical diagnosis and follow-up. Irritation or trauma can trigger new lesions in some people through the Koebner phenomenon, so intensive exfoliation is not an appropriate goal.

A conservative professional decision

If vitiligo is stable, medical advice has been obtained and the skin is intact, only a very superficial, carefully monitored approach might be discussed. Enzymatic exfoliation or low-strength mandelic acid is not a treatment for vitiligo.

Photoprotection is essential

Depigmented areas have less natural melanin protection. Daily broad-spectrum sun protection, clothing and shade remain central, especially after any exfoliation.

What professionals should know

The appropriate choice depends on the cosmetic objective, the complete formula, concentration, pH, contact time, skin condition and intended setting. A percentage alone never predicts the full effect.

• Confirm the exact product, batch and current instructions.
• Assess visible skin condition and reported history without diagnosing.
• Prepare application, timing, endpoint and aftercare before starting.
• Stop and seek suitable advice if a reaction is unusual, severe or persistent.

A measured professional approach

Read the current instructions before use, document the product and observed skin condition, prepare every required step and use only the application method specified for that reference.

Documentation supplied with every peel

Every IDEALDERM peel is supplied with a detailed protocol covering the stages and contact time in the language of the order, for example FR, EN, DE, ES, IT or NL. The current protocol for the exact reference takes priority over this general guide.