A Chemical peel or skin peel involves the application of a specific solution to the surface of the skin to peel away the outermost layers, revealing the fresh skin beneath.
This skin peeling method is used to treat a variety of skin conditions including acne, rosacea, fine wrinkling, blotchy pigmentation, ingrown hairs, yellow complexion and dry skin. Chemical peels are most often performed on the face but may also be beneficial on the neck, chest, back, hands, arms and legs.
Chemical peels, also known as chemical resurfacing, are chemical treatments to produce an improved appearance of the face.
Chemical peels are used for the treatment of photoaging (from sun damage), wrinkles, scarring, acne, pre-cancerous lesions, and discoloration (dyschromia) or uneven skin tone. Chemical peels produce controlled injury to the skin to promote the growth of new skin with an improved appearance.
Many different chemicals are used including glycolic acid, trichloroacetic acid (TCA), salicylic acid, “Jessners“ solution, and phenol. The different chemicals produce different degrees of injury to the skin.
There are two layers of the skin. The outer layer is called the epidermis and the inner layer, the dermis.
Superficial peels (e.g. glycolic acid) produce very superficial injury, confined to the epidermis. Superficial peels can help improve conditions, such as acne and dyschromia. Deeper peels, (e.g. phenol peels) produce injury within the dermis and can reverse moderate-to-severe photoaging and wrinkles. In general, the deeper peels offer the most dramatic results but require longer recovery periods and carry a higher risk of complications.
The depth of chemical peeling depends on the type of chemical used.
It's best not to assume that a low % of acid is less abrasive than a higher percentage. For example: Salicylic Acid 20% is almost as strong as Glycolic 50%. TCA 30% is a completely different peeling agent and can penetrate into the upper layers of the dermis, causing burns if not used properly.
Why should I use a skin peel and which one do you suggest for my skin type?
- If you have normal/combination skin – use a chemical peel to experience some instant tightening and firming. Glycolic 20% - 30% are suggested.
- If you have hyperpigmentation issues – use a chemical peel for smooth, even color and tone. Jessner's Solution or Glycolic Acid 40% is suggested.
- If you have mature/aged skin – use a chemical peel to reverse the signs of sun damage and aging. Glycolic 50% or TCA 10% is suggested.
- If you have oily/acneic skin – use a chemical peel to deeply cleanse pores and stop excess oil production. Salicylic 2% - Salicylic 20% are suggested.
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