Chemical peels are cosmetic procedures used to improve the appearance of the skin on the face, neck, or hands. The procedure involves applying a chemical solution to the skin, which causes the outer layers of skin to peel off, revealing smoother, healthier-looking skin underneath. Chemical peels can be used to address a variety of skin concerns, such as wrinkles, fine lines, acne scars, hyperpigmentation, and sun damage.

In this article, we will discuss the different types of chemical peels, the ingredients used in chemical peels, how they work, what to expect during and after the procedure, and some frequently asked questions.

Types of Chemical Peels

There are three main types of chemical peels: superficial, medium, and deep.

Superficial peels are the mildest type of chemical peel and are used to treat minor skin concerns, such as fine lines, acne, and dryness. They use mild acids like alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) and beta-hydroxy acid (BHA), which work by dissolving the top layer of dead skin cells. Superficial peels typically take less than 30 minutes to perform and require no downtime.

Medium peels are used to treat more significant skin concerns, such as deeper wrinkles, acne scars, and uneven skin tone. They use stronger acids like trichloroacetic acid (TCA) or glycolic acid, which penetrate deeper into the skin to remove the outer and middle layers of skin cells. Medium peels can take up to an hour to perform and may require a few days of downtime.

Deep peels are the most intense type of chemical peel and are used to treat severe skin concerns, such as deep wrinkles, scars, and sun damage. They use the strongest acids, such as phenol, to remove the outer and middle layers of skin cells. Deep peels can take up to two hours to perform and require up to two weeks of downtime.

Ingredients Used in Chemical Peels

The ingredients used in chemical peels vary depending on the type of peel and the skin concern being treated. Here are some of the most common ingredients used in chemical peels and how they work:

  •     Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs): AHAs are water-soluble acids derived from fruits and milk. They work by dissolving the top layer of dead skin cells and increasing cell turnover. AHAs are used in superficial peels to treat mild skin concerns like fine lines, dryness, and acne.
  •     Beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs): BHAs are oil-soluble acids that penetrate deeper into the skin than AHAs. They work by exfoliating dead skin cells and unclogging pores. BHAs are used in superficial peels to treat acne-prone skin.
  •     Glycolic acid: Glycolic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid derived from sugarcane. It is one of the most commonly used acids in chemical peels because it has small molecules that can penetrate deep into the skin. Glycolic acid works by dissolving the top layer of dead skin cells and stimulating collagen production. 

Conclusion

Chemical peels for face are a popular cosmetic treatment that can help improve the appearance of the skin on the face, neck, and hands. They use different types of chemical solutions to exfoliate the outer layer of the skin and reveal smoother, more youthful-looking skin underneath. If you're considering a chemical peel, it's important to choose a reputable provider and to discuss your options with a dermatologist to ensure that the treatment is right for you.