A chemical solution is applied to the skin that causes it to exfoliate and eventually peel off. Mild redness and swelling of the treated area can occur but usually subsides in few hours. The new, regenerated skin is usually smoother, have less pigmentary irregularities.
Superficial peel: targets only the outer layer of skin, to gently exfoliate it. It improves the appearance of mild skin discoloration and rough skin. It requires 1 to 7 days to heal. Example Salicyclic acid peel, yellow peel, Glycolic acid peel 15-30%
Medium peel – improve age spots, fine lines and wrinkles, freckles and moderate skin discoloration. It requires 7 to 14 days to heal. Example glycolic acid 50-70%, TCA 10-30% peel
Deep peel: The treatment removes moderate lines, age spots, freckles and shallow scars. It requires 14 to 21 days to heal. Example Phenol peel, TCA >30% peel
Uses of chemical peels
- Acne scars
- Rejuvenation
- Hyperpigmentation , Melasma
- Sun damaged skin
- Wrinkles, Aging skin
Contraindications
- Nursing or pregnant.
- infections,
- active skin disease like psoriasis
- cut or broken skin
- sunburn
FAQs
- How many sittings needed. – usually 4 to 6 sittings are given over a period of 8 to 10 weeks. The patient might require maintenance treatment every 3 to 6 months for long lasting results depending on patient indication for peeling.
- Precautions needed after procedure – most important thing is to use broad spectrum sunscreen regularly.