Phenol–Croton Oil Chemical Peeling Induces Durable Improvement of Constitutional Periorbital Dark Circles

Abstract

BACKGROUND Constitutional periorbital dark circles (PDC) are common in skin of color and represent a therapeutic challenge. OBJECTIVE To summarize the experience of the International Peeling Society on the safety and effectiveness of deep chemical peeling in the treatment of constitutional PDC. MATERIALS AND METHODS Multi-institutional, retrospective case series (1990–2020) of constitutional PDC treated by deep chemical peeling. Descriptive analysis by age, sex, Fitzpatrick phototype, phenol–croton formula, degree and durability of improvement, and complications. RESULTS Fifty-five phenol–croton oil peels were performed in 52 patients: 3 patients received a second peel for periorbital rhytids 72 to 84 months after the first peel. 92% (48/52) of patients were women; the median age was 46 years (range, 23–68 years). 89% (46/52) of patients were Fitzpatrick III-IV. Most common formula included phenol 60% to 65% and croton oil 0.6% to 0.7%. 89% (49/55) of peels demonstrated >50% clinical improvement. The median duration of improvement was 24 months (range, 1.5–168 months), and 69% (36/52) of patients demonstrated ongoing improvement at the last follow-up. 4% (2/55) of peels exhibited complications of persistent erythema that resolved without scarring. CONCLUSION Based on its safety and effectiveness, deep chemical peels are a treatment of choice for constitutional PDC.