The chemical peeling is a process of applying solutions to the skin in a controlled manner for producing controlled exfolition. The desired depth of peeling depends upon the condition to be treated. After the peeling process, the skin regenerates. The damaged skin regenerates through the growth of cells from deeper layers of the epidermis.
Chemical peels are classified by the depth of the damage that they produce in the skin. They are categorized as superficial peel, medium peel, and deep peel. The depth of the damage depends on the nature and concentration of the chemicals in the peeling solutions and the length of time they are permitted to interact with the skin. The major chemicals in the peeling solutions include Retinoids, alpha-hydroxy acids, beta-hydroxy acids, phenol and trichloroacetic acid.
Superficial Peel
They are the mildest type of chemical peel and can be used on all types of skin. The superficial peel includes a liquid containing a mild acid, most often glycolic acid. Dry ice (Solid carbon dioxide) can also be used sometimes.
Medium Peel
It affects the skin deeper than superficial peels . The main peeling agent in the process is Trichloroacetic acid. The entire process may include several sitting after treating the skin with Trichloroacetic acid.
Deep Peel
Deep peels penetrate several layers of the skin . They are used only on the face. For this kind of peeling, phenol is the used. Phenol tends to bleach the skin, so deep peels may not be done on darker skin. A deep peel can be done only once in most of the cases.
Generally, patients with light skin color are better candidates for chemical peeling. If you are having a darker skin, you may also have good results depending on the type of problem being treated. A dermatologist can help you to determine the most appropriate treatment for your skin condition.
The chemical peeling can help you to
Reduce fine lines under the eyes and around the mouth
Treat wrinkles caused by sun damage and aging
Improve the appearance of the skin
Fade mild scars
Treat certain types of acne
Reduce pigmentation, age spots, freckles and dark patches
The majority of patients who undergo any of these three chemical peeling suffer no serious side effects. Most of the patients have the positive effect and they wanted to retreat their skin with chemical peeling. With the most chemical peels, adverse effects are rare.
Depending on superficial and medium peels, the patients can expect common chemical peeling side effects like redness and mild irritation. These side effects will generally last for a few days. The deep chemical peels take more time for recovery and the crusting of skin is typically more pronounced.
Just like any other medical process, the patient should carefully follow their doctor’s instruction for pre and post chemical process. The good care can minimize the potentials for adverse side effects.
