Cosmelan Peel

Cosmelan is a two-phase professional depigmentation system — not a traditional peel. Phase one is an in-clinic application of the Cosmelan 1 mask, which you wear for 8 to 12 hours and remove at home. Phase two is a months-long at-home protocol using Cosmelan 2 maintenance cream. Together, they target enzymatic pigment production, support exfoliation of pigmented surface cells, and help reduce recurrence. This is typically offered with strict home-application guidance and follow-up.

Cosmelan may be appropriate for clients with melasma, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH from acne or injury), sun spots, chloasma, or persistent uneven skin tone. It is commonly used in professional protocols for Fitzpatrick skin types I through IV, with modified protocols sometimes considered for types V and VI after consultation. Cosmelan is not suitable for clients who are pregnant, breastfeeding, have active skin infections, or have used isotretinoin (Accutane) in the past 6 months. A thorough consultation with your clinician will confirm your candidacy before any treatment is planned.

Yes — the peeling between days 3 and 7 is an expected and necessary part of the Cosmelan protocol. The TCA and exfoliating acids in the Cosmelan 1 mask shed the melanin-loaded surface cells, creating space for fresher, less pigmented skin beneath. The intensity of peeling varies by skin type and mask wear time but is typically described as moderate: visible flaking and tightness, not raw or weeping skin. Most clients plan their social commitments around this window and work from home during peak peeling days. Using only the approved gentle kit products during this phase protects the barrier and supports a smooth recovery.

The standard protocol includes one in-clinic Cosmelan 1 mask application followed by 3 to 4 months of at-home Cosmelan 2 maintenance cream. Most clients benefit from ongoing follow-up because response and pigmentation pathways vary by hormonal profile and skin type. For some, a second in-clinic session may be considered after the follow-up cycle. Ongoing skin care and UV discipline support long-term stability.

Cosmelan is commonly used in professional protocols for Fitzpatrick types I through IV. For types V and VI, a modified protocol may be considered and must be discussed thoroughly during your consultation. The risk with darker skin types is post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from the treatment itself if the protocol is too aggressive — which is why wear time customization and a conservative introduction to Cosmelan 2 are essential. At Rani, we take Fitzpatrick typing seriously and will not proceed with treatment on any skin tone without a full consultation and an individualized plan that prioritizes safety and realistic expectations.

The Cosmelan Peel is $1,399 per session (90 min in-clinic application), which includes the Cosmelan 1 mask treatment, your aftercare kit, and your follow-up progress appointment. The at-home Cosmelan 2 maintenance cream is included in your protocol plan. Financing is available through Cherry and PatientFi with no credit impact pre-qualification. Call us at (425) 539-4440 to schedule your consultation and confirm your candidacy.