Chemical peels can be classified according to the depth ,or according to the chemical agent used e.g. Alpha Hydroxy Acids, Beta Hydroxy Acids, Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA) and more.

Treatments,

Chemical Peel

What is it?

A Chemical Peel is a dermatological treatment used to improve and treat a wide range of skin conditions. These include superficial wrinkles, dull skin, pigmentary conditions (melasma, photo-aging), acne, scarring as well as actinic keratosis (pre-malignant skin lesions).

Chemical peels can be classified according to the depth (superficial, medium and deep),or according to the chemical agent used e.g. Alpha Hydroxy Acids (e.g. glycolic acid, lactic acid and malic acid), Beta Hydroxy Acids (e.g. Salicylic acid), Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA) and many more.

How does it work?

Chemical peels stimulate the renewal of skin (epidermis and upper dermis) by means of chemical exfoliation. Specific chemical acids cause “controlled” damage of old, unhealthy cells and stimulate the wound healing cascade to produce healthier skin cells (keratinocytes and melanocytes) and more organized collagen and elastin fibers.

Typical chemical peel reactions include skin tingling, stinging, itching and sunburn sensation. Post peel treatment is always advised and include avoiding direct sunlight and applying broad-spectrum sunscreen.

Results

Improvement of dullness is evident after one session, but for other skin concerns a series of at least 4 treatments should be performed. Treatments can be performed every 10-14 days and should ideally be done once a month for maintenance.

NOTE

Chemical peels are contra-indicated in:

  • Persons on active Isotretinoin (e.g. Oratane, Roaccutane) treatment
  • Persons currently breastfeeding
  • Persons younger than 12 years

* Superficial peels are safe during pregnancy.