Chemical Peel
- Sal
- Apr 2
- 2 min read
Updated: Apr 4
What is a Chemical Peel?
A chemical peel is a skin resurfacing procedure that involves the application of a chemical solution to the skin causing the top layers of skin to exfoliate and eventually peel off. When the skin sheds, new skin cells regenerate, revealing fresher, smoother, and more youthful-looking skin.
Types of Chemical Peels
Superficial Peels (Light Peels): Using mild acids like alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) to peel off the outermost layer of the skin, they are often used for minor skin concerns like uneven texture, mild discoloration, and surface-level acne.
Medium Peels: This kind of peels typically use trichloroacetic acid (TCA) to penetrate deeper into the skin, targeting more stubborn skin concerns such as moderate sun damage, wrinkles, and acne scars.
Deep Peels: During deep peels that should be done under local anesthesia and medical supervision, strong acids such as phenol are used to penetrate deeply into the skin and can address severe sun damage, deep wrinkles, and scars.
The most common skin issues that chemical peels can improve are :
1. Acne
The exfoliation due to superficial and medium depth chemical peel helps to unclog pores, preventing the buildup of dead skin cells and excess oil, which can contribute to acne formation.
2. Fine Lines and Wrinkles
Chemical peels can address fine lines and wrinkles due to aging by promoting collagen synthesis and accelerating cell turnover. Superficial peels can help reduce the appearance of fine lines, while medium-depth peels can target deeper wrinkles.
3.Hyperpigmentation
Chemical peels, especially those using glycolic acid or TCA, can lighten hyperpigmentation including age spots, sun spots, and melasma by sloughing off the top layers of skin, where the pigment resides.
4. Sun Damage and Photoaging
By removing the outer layer of dead, damaged skin resulting from prolonged sun exposure, chemical peels help improve the overall appearance, texture, and tone of the skin, giving it a fresher, more youthful appearance.
5. Dry Skin
Superficial chemical peels, like those with AHAs, can provide deep hydration by removing dead skin cells built up in dry skin condition, leaving the skin smoother and more radiant.