While the name itself may carry connotations of something harsh and unpleasant, the science of chemical peels is actually quite simple. Chemical peels use precise combinations of active ingredients to exfoliate the skin, similar to the user of a more conventional exfoliating product, though on a much more advanced level.
The compounds and solutions in chemical peels induce controlled skin shedding, leading to the removal of dead and damaged cells from the surface. This process paves the way for fresher, healthier skin to emerge, resulting in improved texture, reduced imperfections and a youthful glow.
When administered by a qualified and experienced practitioner, chemical peels can be comprehensively safe, with little to no risk of adverse effects and no post-treatment downtime.
A Brief History of Chemical Peels in Skincare
The roots of chemical peels trace back to ancient civilisations like Egypt and Greece, where various natural substances were used commonly for exfoliation. However, it wasn’t until the mid-19th century that chemical peels as we know them today started to gain traction, when solutions like phenol started being applied to the skin for rejuvenation.
Further into the 20th century, advancements in cosmetic dermatology refined the concept further, bringing glycolic, salicylic and trichloroacetic acids into the mix. These breakthroughs transformed chemical peels from rudimentary practices to sophisticated treatments, targeting various skin concerns with impressive safety and efficacy.
Today, chemical peels are among the most popular non-surgical cosmetic treatments performed worldwide. Their ability to exfoliate, rejuvenate and stimulate collagen production has made them a staple, providing men and women of all ages with effective solutions for improved skin texture and tone, without the need for invasive procedures.
How Chemical Peels Work: Understanding the Peeling Process
Chemical peels work by applying a carefully combined blend of chemicals to the skin’s surface in precise amounts. This solution triggers controlled exfoliation, allowing the outer layer of dead and damaged skin cells to slough off naturally.
As the skin heals, collagen production is stimulated, resulting in improved elasticity and texture.
Different ‘Depths’ of Chemical Peels
One of the biggest differences between DIY home peels and professional chemical peels is their potency. When chemical peels are performed in a clinical setting, the precision and effectiveness of the treatment can be vastly superior.
In both instances, you will come across three different peel ‘depths’ referred to: superficial, medium and deep. Superficial peels gently exfoliate the outermost layer of skin, making them suitable for mild concerns. Medium peels penetrate slightly deeper, addressing moderate issues like fine lines and sun damage. Deep peels reach the deeper layers of skin and are reserved for severe damage or scarring.
Chemical Peel Uses and Applications
Superficial Peels: Refreshing the Outermost Layer
Superficial peels are a great introduction to chemical exfoliation. They are effective in treating minor imperfections such as dullness, uneven texture and mild pigmentation irregularities. Often formulated with alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), these peels gently lift away the top layer of dead skin cells, revealing a brighter complexion.
Medium Peels: Addressing Moderate Skin Concerns
If you’re dealing with more noticeable concerns like sunspots, moderate wrinkles and uneven tone, medium peels might be your answer. These peels typically employ trichloroacetic acid (TCA) to target deeper layers of skin, resulting in a more significant renewal process.
Deep Peels: Targeting Severe Skin Damage
Deep peels are reserved for cases of severe sun damage, deep wrinkles and substantial scarring. Phenol-based solutions are commonly used for these peels, as they penetrate deeply to stimulate collagen production and address more substantial skin issues. Due to their intensity, deep peels require a longer recovery period.
Common Skin Concerns Treated with Chemical Peels
The versatility of chemical peels is one of the biggest points of appeal, with a broad range of products available to treat an equally broad range of common skin complaints. Along with simply improving overall skin texture, tone and appearance, chemical peels can be highly effective in treating conditions such as:
- Acne and Acne Scarring: Chemical peels can tackle active acne and reduce the appearance of post-acne scars. The exfoliation process unclogs pores, helps prevent future breakouts and promotes a smoother skin texture. By shedding the top layer of damaged skin, chemical peels encourage the growth of new, healthier skin cells, leading to a clearer complexion.
- Sun Damage and Hyperpigmentation: Chemical exfoliation can also be effective in diminishing sunspots, age spots and damage caused by sun exposure. The peeling process removes the top layer of pigmented skin cells, revealing fresher skin beneath. Over a series of treatments, chemical peels can gradually even out skin tone and reduce the appearance of discolouration.
- Fine Lines and Wrinkles: Collagen loss contributes to the formation of fine lines and wrinkles. Chemical peels stimulate collagen production by inducing controlled exfoliation. As the skin heals, it becomes plumper and smoother, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. This results in a more youthful and rejuvenated complexion.
- Melasma: Melasma is a common skin condition characterised by brown or grey patches on the face, often triggered by hormonal changes. Chemical peels can help lighten these patches by exfoliating the hyperpigmented skin cells and encouraging the growth of new, evenly pigmented skin. Superficial and medium peels can be effective in managing melasma when combined with a comprehensive skincare regimen.
During your initial consultation, your practitioner will determine which type of chemical peel is suitable for you, based on your objectives and the condition of your skin at the time.
The Chemical Peel Procedure: A Step-by-Step Overview
All chemical peels are tailored to meet the unique requirements of the patient, but the treatment process itself tends to be fairly consistent.
Here’s what you can expect if you decide to undergo a professional chemical peel:
- Consultation and Preparation: The process will always begin with a consultation with a skincare professional, to discuss your skin concerns and goals. They will assess your skin type and recommend the appropriate type and depth of chemical peel. Prior to the treatment, you might be advised to discontinue certain skincare products like retinoids to ensure optimal results.
- Cleansing and Prepping: The treatment area will be cleansed thoroughly to remove any makeup, oils, or debris. This step ensures that the peel solution can penetrate the skin effectively.
- Application of the Peel Solution: The appropriate chemical peel solution will be carefully applied to the treatment area using a brush or applicator. The solution’s composition and strength will determine the duration it remains on your skin. Your skincare professional will closely monitor this stage to ensure the desired effects are achieved without causing discomfort.
- Sensations During the Peel: As the peel solution interacts with your skin, you might experience mild sensations like tingling, warmth, or a slight stinging sensation. These feelings are normal and typically subside after a short while. Your skincare professional can offer cooling measures if needed to enhance your comfort.
- Neutralisation and Removal: At the appropriate time, the peel solution will be neutralised or removed using water or a specialised neutralising agent. This halts the peeling process and prevents over-exfoliation.
- Post-Peel Care: After the peel, your skincare professional will provide guidance on aftercare, which may include gentle cleansers, moisturisers and sun protection. It’s crucial to adhere to these instructions to optimise your results and minimise any potential side effects.
- Recovery and Results: Over the next few days, you may notice some redness, flaking, or peeling. This is a normal part of the rejuvenation process, as the old skin is shed to reveal fresher skin underneath. As the healing continues, your skin will appear smoother, more radiant and revitalised.
During the peel, you may experience sensations like tingling, warmth and mild discomfort. These are normal responses and typically subside once the peel is complete.
Recovery and Aftercare
After a chemical peel, you can expect some redness, flaking and mild irritation. These side effects are temporary and can be managed with gentle skincare products recommended by your professional.
To maximise the benefits of your chemical peel, follow a post-peel skincare regimen. This may include using gentle cleansers, moisturisers and avoiding exfoliating products until your skin fully heals.
Results are cumulative and often become more apparent over time. The frequency of chemical peels required varies depending on the peel’s depth and your individual skin concerns. Superficial peels can be performed more frequently, while medium and deep peels require more time between treatments.
Making the Right Choice
While chemical peels have the potential to deliver outstanding results and benefits, there may be other options to consider. Examples of which include:
- Microdermabrasion: This non-chemical method exfoliates the skin using a diamond-tipped wand, effectively improving texture and addressing mild imperfections. It’s gentler than chemical peels but may require more sessions for comparable results.
- Laser Treatments: Laser therapies target specific skin concerns by delivering concentrated light energy. They are effective for resurfacing, reducing pigmentation and stimulating collagen production. However, they might involve more downtime than superficial peels.
- Skincare Products: Topical products containing active ingredients like retinol, vitamin C and glycolic acid can contribute to skin renewal over time. While they offer gradual results, they are less invasive than peels.
Contact Body Work Clinic
At Body Work Clinic, we’re committed to providing every client with the objective advice and insights they need to make confident and informed decisions, based on their beauty goals and objectives. If you would like to learn more about chemical peels or any of the treatments we provide, we would be delighted to provide you with an obligation-free consultation at your convenience.
Call anytime, or email Body Work Clinic and we’ll get back to you as promptly as possible.