What are chemical peels?
Chemical peels or Skin peels, are advanced skin treatments that improve texture, tone, and overall skin health. By exfoliating the outer layers of the skin, these treatments help address concerns such as fine lines, acne scars, pigmentation, and dullness.
How do chemical peels work?
A chemical peel involves the application of a chemical solution to the skin, which accelerates the natural exfoliation process. This process stimulates cell renewal, revealing a smoother, more even complexion. The depth and strength of a chemical peel vary depending on the type of solution used and the skin concerns being addressed.
Types of Chemical Peels and Their Benefits
1. Light Peels (Superficial Peels)
Light chemical peels use mild acids such as glycolic or lactic acid to gently exfoliate the outermost layer of the skin. These peels are ideal for individuals seeking a brighter complexion, reduction in mild acne and breakouts and improved skin texture with minimal downtime. Recovery from a light peel is quick, with only slight redness or flaking for a few days.
2. Medium Peels
Medium-depth peels typically use trichloroacetic acid (TCA) to penetrate deeper into the skin, treating moderate wrinkles and fine lines, sun damage and pigmentation and acne scars. The recovery period for a medium peel lasts around 7–10 days, with noticeable peeling and mild discomfort during healing.
3. Deep Peels
Deep chemical peels, often using phenol or high-strength TCA, provide dramatic results by addressing significant wrinkles and scars, severe sun damage and uneven skin tone caused by hyperpigmentation disorders. Deep peels require longer recovery times and must be performed by an experienced professional. Patients typically experience redness, peeling, and sensitivity lasting several weeks.
The Chemical Peel Process
Before undergoing a chemical peel treatment, a consultation may be necessary to assess skin type and determine the most suitable treatment. The procedure involves:
- Cleansing the skin to remove oils and impurities.
- Applying the chemical solution, which may cause a mild tingling or warming sensation.
- Leaving the solution on the skin for a specific time before neutralising or removing it.
Light peels are relatively comfortable, while medium and deep peels may require additional cooling measures to reduce sensitivity.
What to do after the treatment?
- Keep the skin moisturised and hydrated.
- Avoid sun exposure and using high-SPF sunscreen.
- Do not pick or peel flaking skin.
