Chemical peeling is a cosmetic procedure used to improve the appearance of the skin by removing the outer layers of damaged skin. This is achieved by applying a chemical solution to the skin, which causes the top layer of skin to blister and peel off. The new skin that is revealed is smoother, more youthful-looking, and generally has fewer blemishes, fine lines, and wrinkles.
There are different types of chemical peels available, each with varying degrees of strength and depth. The most common types include:
Superficial peels: These are the mildest type of peels and only remove the outermost layer of the skin. They are usually made of alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) and are used to treat mild skin discoloration, fine lines, and rough skin texture.
Medium-depth peels: These remove the outer and middle layers of skin and are usually made of glycolic or trichloroacetic acid (TCA). They are used to treat more severe skin conditions, such as moderate acne scarring and deeper wrinkles.
Deep peels: These remove the entire epidermis and penetrate into the lower dermis. They are usually made of phenol and are used to treat severe skin conditions, such as deep wrinkles and significant sun damage.
Chemical peels can be performed on the face, neck, hands, and chest. The procedure takes about 30-60 minutes, depending on the type of peel being used. After the procedure, the skin may be red, swollen, and peeling for a few days to several weeks, depending on the depth of the peel.
Chemical peels are generally safe. It is important to discuss the risks and benefits of chemical peels with a qualified dermatologist like us before undergoing the procedure.