What are chemical peels?
Chemical peels are liquids which are brushed on to the face, neck and hands to
help remove dead skin cells and stimulate the growth of new cells. The treatment
applied to the skin causes exfoliation and over time will peel off, the new layer of
skin underneath is smoother and rejuvenate.
3 types of chemical peel are:
1. Superficial (epidermis)
2. Medium (epidermis through to papillary dermis)
3. Deep (epidermis through to mid dermis)
Superficial Peels
A mild acid is used to penetrate only the outer layer of skin to gently exfoliate it.
The treatment is used to improve:
● Mild skin discolouration
● Rough skin
● Refresh the face, neck, chest and hands.
Medium peels
Glycolic or Trichloroacetic acid is applied to penetrate the outer and middle layers
of the skin to remove damaged skin cells. The treatment is used to improve:
● Age spots
● Fine lines
● Wrinkles
● Freckles
● Moderate skin discolouration
Deep Peels
Trichloroacetic acid or phenol is applied to help penetrate the middle layer of skin
to remove damaged skin cells.
The treatment removes:
● Moderate lines
● Age spots
● Freckles
● Shallow scars
Chemical peels types
Glycolic – has the smallest molecular size and penetrates the deepest. It is great
for the exfoliation and rejuvenation of aging skin.
Lactic – Derived from milk, it is ideal for the skin that is dry or is sensitive to
ingredients like retinol. Lactic peel is easier on the skin meaning less concern for
adverse reaction.
Vitalize – Includes lactic, citric and salicylic acids with a retinol layer to help
improve the quality and lighten the pigmentation of the skin. Great starter peel
for people who have not had a chemical peel before.
Pigment balancing – designed to, over time, help lighten the pigment of the skin
helping to try and eliminate brown spots and reduce pigmentation.
Beta – is used to treat acne in both younger and older patients, it uses salicylic
acid to exfoliate the skin, which in turn helps with oil control and targets bacteria
that causes acne.
Acid Types
TCA (Trichloroacetic Acid) – applied to the skin and dries up the top layer of cells
so it peels off which may take days or weeks. The skin that appears from
underneath the old cells is smoother and more even in tone. If you have
hyperpigmentation due to sun damage or melasma, TCA is usually a good option.
Glycolic Acid – improves your skin’s texture, rebuilds collagen and can help reduce
uneven colouration due to acne, age spots and un damage. Its small molecules
allow it to penetrate deeply into your skin.
Beta Hydroxy Acid – Features salicylic acid and contains anti-inflammatory
properties so it can help reduce irritation. Peels that contain salicylic acid can help
fight acne by drying up excess oil and cleaning out clogged pores. BHA peels are
therefore useful if you have blemishes or discolouration due to acne. People with
rosacea or other sensitive skin condition may prefer BHA peels too, because of
their gentler nature.
Mandelic Acid – especially effective on clogged pores, blackheads and acne on the
face and body. It is gentler than glycolic acid, so the range in concentrations varies
greatly from 10% to 25%. Like most peels, it flakes away the top layer of skin to
reveal a brighter layer underneath. Mandelic acid peels may also help you fade
dark marks and other discolouration over time.
