CHEMICAL PEELS
Chemical peels are a type of skin treatment used in cosmetic and dermatological procedures to improve and smooth the texture of the skin. They involve the application of a chemical solution to the skin, which causes the top layers to exfoliate and eventually peel off. This process reveals newer, more youthful skin beneath.
Chemical peels can be used to treat various skin issues, including wrinkles, discoloured skin, and scars, primarily on the face. They come in different strengths: light, medium, and deep, each targeting different skin concerns and offering varying degrees of effects.
SUPERFICIAL PEEL
Superficial chemical peels, also known as light chemical peels or lunchtime peels, are the mildest type of chemical peel and can be a great option for those new to skin resurfacing procedures.
They typically target the epidermis, the outermost layer of the skin, and are quick to administer, usually with minimal downtime. The concentrations of the acids used are generally lower compared to medium or deep peels. Common ingredients used in superficial peels include:
ALPHA-HYDROXY ACIDS (AHAS)
- Glycolic Acid: 20-50%
- Lactic Acid: 20-30%
BETA-HYDROXY ACIDS (BHAS)
- Salicylic Acid: 20-30%
JESSNER'S PEEL
- A combination of salicylic acid, lactic acid, and resorcinol, usually at lower concentrations.
FRUIT ENZYMES
- Papain (from papaya) and Bromelain (from pineapple)
WHAT DO SUPERFICIAL PEELS TREAT?
Superficial peels are well-suited for a range of minor skin issues and cosmetic improvements. Here are some of the conditions and imperfections that superficial peels commonly treat:
FINE LINES AND WRINKLES
Superficial peels can help reduce the appearance of fine lines, especially those around the eyes and mouth.
MILD ACNE AND ACNE SCARS
The treatment can help control mild acne and reduce the appearance of minor acne scars by exfoliating the outer layer of skin and unclogging pores.
UNEVEN SKIN TONE
Superficial peels can help improve uneven skin tone and reduce hyperpigmentation, including age spots and melasma.
DULL COMPLEXION
These peels can remove dead skin cells, revealing a fresher, more radiant layer of skin beneath.
SUN DAMAGE
Superficial peels can help treat minor sun damage, although they are not suitable for more severe forms of photodamage.
ROUGH OR DRY SKIN
The treatment can improve the texture of rough or dry skin by removing the outer layer of dead skin cells.
ENLARGED PORES
Some people find that a superficial peel can make pores appear smaller by removing the surface layer of skin and unclogging pore openings.
MILD ROSACEA
In some cases, superficial peels can help improve the appearance of mild rosacea, although it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
RESULTS
Because superficial peels are mild, they usually require little to no downtime. However, multiple sessions are often needed to achieve noticeable results, and maintenance treatments may be necessary to sustain these improvements.
PROCEDURE FOR SUPERFICIAL PEELS
The procedure for a superficial chemical peel typically follows a series of steps to ensure both the effectiveness and safety of the treatment. Below is a general outline of what you can expect during a superficial chemical peel procedure:
PRELIMINARY CONSULTATION
Skin Analysis: Dr Sandeep will evaluate your skin type, condition, and medical history to determine if a superficial peel is appropriate for you.
Patch Test: A small area of your skin may be tested with the peel solution to check for any adverse reactions.
Treatment Plan: Our team will discuss the treatment goals, number of sessions required, and any preparatory skin care regimen.
PRE-TREATMENT CARE
Skin Preparation: You may be advised to use specific skin care products to prepare your skin for the chemical peel. This often includes retinoid creams or glycolic acid-based products.
Avoid Sun Exposure: It is crucial to avoid excessive sun exposure before the treatment to minimize risks.
DAY OF PROCEDURE
Cleansing: The treatment area will be thoroughly cleansed to remove any makeup, oils, and dirt.
Protection: Barrier creams or gels may be applied to protect sensitive areas like the eyes and mouth.
Chemical Application: The chemical solution, often containing alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) like glycolic acid or lactic acid, is applied to the skin.
Observation: The solution is left on the skin for a specific time, usually just a few minutes, while closely monitored for signs of irritation.
Neutralisation: After the desired time has elapsed, the chemical solution is neutralised with water or a special neutralising solution.
Soothing: A calming lotion or gel, often containing ingredients like aloe vera, is applied to soothe the skin.
POST-TREATMENT CARE
Cooling: Cold compresses may be used to cool down the skin post-procedure.
Hydration and Sunscreen: A hydrating lotion and broad-spectrum sunscreen are usually applied.
Home Care: You will be given specific instructions for skin care at home, which often includes avoiding sun exposure and using mild cleansers.
FOLLOW-UP
Check-up: You may be scheduled for a follow-up appointment to evaluate the results and discuss any additional treatments.
RECOVERY
- Minimal downtime, you can usually return to your regular activities immediately.
- Some redness, tingling, or mild stinging may occur, but this generally subsides within a day.
- Peeling may occur for 3-7 days, but it’s usually not noticeable enough to require downtime.
MAINTENANCE
Superficial peels often require multiple sessions for optimal results, and periodic maintenance treatments may be recommended.
FREQUENCY
Superficial peels can be repeated every 2-6 weeks, depending on your skin’s needs and the recommendation of our team.
It’s essential to follow all pre- and post-treatment instructions carefully and consult our team for a treatment tailored to your specific needs. Always ensure you understand the risks, benefits, and aftercare associated with a superficial chemical peel.
ADVANTAGES OF SUPERFICIAL PEEL
- Quick and convenient, often completed within 30-60 minutes.
- Minimal discomfort and side effects.
- Suitable for all skin types, though a patch test may be done to rule out any adverse reactions.
LIMITATIONS
Not effective for deeper wrinkles or more severe skin conditions.
MEDIUM PEEL
Medium chemical peels are a step up in intensity from superficial peels, targeting both the epidermis and the upper layers of the dermis. These peels are designed to address moderate skin imperfections, and they provide more noticeable results than superficial peels while still having a relatively manageable recovery period. Common ingredients include:
- Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA): For medium-depth peels, TCA concentrations typically range from around 20% to 35%. The concentration may be adjusted based on the specific needs of the client, the area being treated, and the practitioner’s experience.
- Glycolic Acid: When used for medium peels, glycolic acid concentrations often range from 50% to 70%. Again, the actual concentration may be tailored to the client’s skin type and concerns.
WHAT DOES A MEDIUM PEEL TREAT?
A medium chemical peel penetrates both the outer and middle layers of the skin to treat a variety of skin concerns that are more severe than those typically addressed by superficial peels. Here are some of the conditions and imperfections that medium peels commonly treat:
MODERATE WRINKLES AND FINE LINES
Medium peels can reduce the appearance of moderate wrinkles and fine lines, particularly around the eyes, mouth, and forehead.
UNEVEN SKIN TONE AND TEXTURE
These peels can significantly improve uneven skin tone and texture, including conditions like melasma and solar lentigines (age spots).
ACNE SCARS
Medium peels can be effective in treating mild to moderate acne scars by encouraging the growth of new skin and collagen.
HYPERPIGMENTATION
The treatment is often used to correct moderate levels of hyperpigmentation, including age spots and areas of darker skin.
SUN DAMAGED SKIN
Medium peels can treat moderate sun damage, reducing signs like freckles, rough skin, and uneven pigmentation.
ACTINIC KERATOSIS
This is a precancerous skin condition characterized by scaly, crusty spots caused by sun damage. Medium peels can sometimes be used to treat or control actinic keratosis.
MODERATE ROSACEA
In some cases, medium peels can also improve the appearance of moderate rosacea, although it’s crucial to consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.
SKIN REJUVENATION
Medium peels promote skin regeneration and collagen production, leading to more youthful and healthier-looking skin.
RESULTS
Since medium peels penetrate deeper layers of the skin compared to superficial peels, they offer more dramatic results but also come with a higher risk of complications and a longer recovery time.
The downtime can range from a few days to a week or more, depending on the specific chemicals used and the individual’s skin response. After the treatment, the skin will typically be red and swollen, and it will peel over the course of several days.
MEDIUM PEEL PROCEDURE
The procedure for a medium chemical peel is more involved than that for a superficial peel, primarily because it penetrates both the outer and middle layers of the skin. Here is a general outline of what the medium peel procedure typically involves:
PRELIMINARY CONSULTATION
Skin Analysis: Dr Sandeep will conduct a thorough evaluation of your skin type, condition, and medical history.
Patch Test: A small area of your skin may be tested with the peel solution to check for any adverse reactions.
Treatment Plan: The provider will discuss your treatment goals, the number of sessions required, and any preparatory skin care regimen.
PRE-TREATMENT CARE
Skin Preparation: You may be advised to use specific skin care products such as retinoid creams or alpha-hydroxy acids to prepare your skin for the peel.
Avoid Sun Exposure: Sun protection is crucial before undergoing a medium peel to reduce the risk of complications.
DAY OF PROCEDURE
Cleansing: The treatment area will be thoroughly cleansed to remove any makeup, oils, and dirt.
Protection: Barrier creams or gels may be applied to protect sensitive areas like the eyes and mouth.
Anaesthesia: Unlike superficial peels, medium peels often require a local anaesthetic or sedation to minimize discomfort.
Chemical Application: The chemical solution, often containing trichloroacetic acid (TCA), is applied to the skin.
Observation: The solution is left on the skin for a specific duration, closely monitored by the healthcare provider.
Neutralisation: The chemical solution is neutralised with water or a special neutralising solution.
Soothing: A calming lotion or gel may be applied to soothe the skin.
POST-TREATMENT CARE
The strength of the acid used will also influence aftercare requirements, including the type of skincare products to be used post-procedure and the amount of downtime needed for recovery. Proper wound care is essential to prevent infection and ensure optimal results.
Cooling: Cold compresses may be used to cool the skin post-procedure.
Dressings: Sometimes, the treated area may be covered with dressings or bandages.
Hydration and Sunscreen: Once the skin starts to heal, a hydrating lotion and broad-spectrum sunscreen are usually recommended.
Home Care: You will be given specific instructions for post-treatment skin care, including avoiding sun exposure and using mild cleansers.
RECOVERY AND FOLLOW-UP
Downtime: Expected downtime of about 7-14 days, depending on the individual and depth of the peel. Initial redness, followed by peeling or flaking is likely for several days. Mild to moderate swelling and tightness of the skin is to be expected.
Check-up: A follow-up appointment will likely be scheduled to assess the healing process and discuss any additional treatments.
Maintenance: Additional sessions may be needed for optimal results, and periodic maintenance treatments could be recommended. To achieve and maintain the results of a peel, they should be performed on regular intervals recommended by our team.
ADVANTAGES
- Provides more dramatic results compared to superficial peels.
- Can be customized in terms of intensity and ingredients.
- Can be repeated every 3-9 months, depending on your skin’s needs and your healthcare provider’s recommendations.
DEEP PEELS
A deep chemical peel is the most intense form of chemical peel available and penetrates the skin more deeply than either superficial or medium peels. Due to its intensity, a deep peel treats more severe skin issues but also comes with greater risks and a longer recovery time.
WHAT ARE CONDITIONS TREATED BY DEEP PEELS?
SEVERE WRINKLES AND FINE LINES
A deep chemical peel is the most intense form of chemical peel available and penetrates the skin more deeply than either superficial or medium peels. Due to its intensity, a deep peel treats more severe skin issues but also comes with greater risks and a longer recovery time.
SEVERE SUN DAMAGE
These peels are effective for treating severe photodamage, including precancerous growths.
DEEP ACNE SCARS
Deep peels can help reduce the appearance of deep acne scars.
SEVERE HYPERPIGMENTATION
Conditions like severe age spots, freckles, and melasma can be treated.
SKIN LAXITY
Some deep peels can help tighten loose or sagging skin.
ACTINIC KERATOSIS
Precancerous skin growths can sometimes be treated with deep peels.
WHAT ARE THE COMMONLY USED AGENTS FOR DEEP PEELS
Deep peels reach the lower dermal level of the skin and offer the most dramatic and long-lasting results. Common ingredients used are:
PHENOL PEEL
The most commonly used agent is phenol, often formulated at a concentration of approximately 88%. This is a highly potent concentration and penetrates deeply into the dermal layers of the skin. Here’s some additional context about the peel:
- Duration: May take 1 to 2 hours, depending on the area being treated.
- Anaesthesia: Local anaesthesia and/or sedation are typically required due to the intensity of the peel.
- Monitoring: Given the strength of phenol and its systemic effects, cardiac monitoring may be necessary during the procedure.
- Due to its potential toxicity and risk of scarring this peel is not offered at our clinic.
TRICHLOROACETIC ACID (TCA)
TCA is generally not used for deep peels, but when it is, concentrations above 35% may be used.
Because TCA is generally less potent than phenol, it is more commonly used for medium-depth peels.
PROCEDURE FOR DEEP PEELS
The procedure for a deep chemical peel is a complex and involved process that requires careful planning, skilled execution, and meticulous post-treatment care. Here is a general outline of what a deep chemical peel procedure typically involves:
PRELIMINARY CONSULTATION
Initial Assessment: A thorough evaluation of your skin type, condition, and medical history is conducted by a qualified healthcare provider to determine suitability for a deep peel.
Informed Consent: Detailed discussions about the risks, benefits, and aftercare are conducted, and informed consent is obtained.
PRE-TREATMENT PREPARATIONS
Pre-treatment Regimen: You may be prescribed medications and skin-care products to prepare your skin for the peel. This often includes retinoid creams and antibiotics.
Avoid Sun Exposure: Sun protection is crucial in the weeks leading up to the treatment.
DAY OF PROCEDURE
Arrival and Setup: Due to the intensity of the treatment, a deep peel often takes place in a surgical setting. You may be required to arrive well in advance of the procedure.
Anaesthesia: General anaesthesia or deep sedation is usually administered.
Cleansing: The skin is thoroughly cleansed to remove oils and debris.
Protective Measures: Eyes are covered, and barrier creams may be applied to sensitive areas.
Chemical Application: A strong chemical solution, often containing phenol or high concentration trichloroacetic acid (TCA), is applied to the skin.
Monitoring: The healthcare provider closely monitors the skin and the client’s vitals during the application.
Neutralisation: The chemical solution may be neutralised or removed after a specific period, depending on the chemical used.
POST-TREATMENT CARE
Immediate Care: Sterile dressings or bandages are applied to the treated areas.
Hospital Stay: An overnight hospital stay is often required for monitoring.
Pain Management: Prescription pain medication is usually provided to manage discomfort.
Initial Healing: The first few days may involve significant swelling, redness, and discomfort.
Skin Care: Detailed instructions for cleansing and applying ointments will be given for home care.
RECOVERY AND FOLLOW-UP
Extended Downtime: Recovery can take several weeks, with treated skin often taking months to fully heal.
Follow-up Appointments: Multiple follow-up visits will be scheduled to monitor healing, remove sutures if used, and address any complications.
Sun Protection: Rigorous sun protection is essential for several months following the procedure.
AFTERCARE
Aftercare is a critical aspect of the deep chemical peel process, as it helps to minimize complications and promote optimal healing. Given the intensity of the treatment, adhering to aftercare guidelines is crucial for a successful outcome. Here’s what you can typically expect:
Immediate Aftercare
- Wound Dressing: Sterile bandages or dressings may be applied to the treated areas.
- Antibiotic Ointment: You’ll often be instructed to apply an antibiotic ointment to prevent bacterial infections.
- Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribed medications might be recommended to manage discomfort.
First Week
- Facial Cleansing: Use a mild cleanser to gently clean the area without scrubbing, as directed by our team.
- Hydration: Keeping the skin moisturized is essential; a specialized ointment or cream may be recommended.
- Avoid Sun Exposure: The treated skin will be highly sensitive to the sun, making a high-SPF sunscreen crucial when you eventually go outdoors.
Second Week Onwards
- Skin Peeling: The skin will start to peel off, revealing a new layer that may be pink or red.
- Avoiding Irritation: Continue to avoid any skincare products that might irritate the new skin, such as retinoids or glycolic acid, unless advised otherwise by our team.
- Regular Check-ups: You’ll likely have regular follow-up appointments to monitor healing and address any complications.
RECOVERY
- Downtime can be extensive, often 1-2 weeks off work or social activities.
- The skin will be red, swollen, and sensitive for several weeks.
- Crusting and peeling are expected, and the new skin will initially be pink or red.
Additional Guidelines
- Avoid Exercise: It’s generally advised to avoid strenuous exercise or activities that might cause sweating for at least a week or two post-procedure.
- No Smoking: Smoking can impair the healing process, so it’s advised to quit or reduce smoking both before and after the procedure.
- Diet: Some healthcare providers may recommend a diet rich in protein and vitamins A and C to help in skin healing.
- Hydration: Drinking plenty of fluids can also aid in the healing process.
ADVANTAGES
- Dramatic improvement in skin texture and appearance.
- Long-lasting results, sometimes lasting years.
POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS TO WATCH FOR
- Unusual pain
- Signs of infection like excessive redness or discharge
- Changes in skin pigmentation
- Scarring
Given the intensity of deep peels and the importance of proper aftercare, it’s vital to consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized guidelines tailored to your skin type and needs. Always attend all scheduled post-procedure check-ups to monitor your progress and ensure that you’re healing as expected.
Deep chemical peel is not offered at our facility.
UNCOVER GLOWING SKIN WITH CHEMICAL PEEL TREATMENTS!
Reveal your skin’s vibrant potential with Chemical Peel treatments. Wave goodbye to uneven textures and imperfections, and welcome a radiant, more refined complexion.
Take the step toward your skin’s renewal. Schedule your bespoke Chemical Peel session with Dr Sandeep now and set forth on a voyage to resplendent skin. Click here to make your appointment. Your pathway to a glowing, smooth complexion starts here!
