Thioglycolic Acid Peel for Dark Circles Under Eyes

Abstract

Eyelid dark circles are important in clinical practice because they cause visual sensation of tiredness and aging. They are classified into vascular discoloration, hyperpigmentation, tear trough depression, and skin texture alteration. Vascular discoloration occurs in thin skin by accumulation of hemoglobin and components of its degradation in the skin by microruptures in the vessels. Thioglycolic acid has an antioxidant activity and capability of eliminating iron accumulation. The protocol is three to five sessions of 10% acid with a minimum interval of 15 days. Burning sensation and frost are guides to the endpoint of the session. The possible complications are related to pain, persistent burning sensation, edema, erythema, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. The use of bleach creams and sunglasses and avoiding sun exposure improve the results and help to avoid complications.