Chemical Peeling

What is chemical peeling?

Chemical peeling is a cosmetic procedure that uses chemical substances to remove damaged outer layers of the skin and stimulate the skin to renew itself. Through this treatment, a chemical solution is applied to the skin, causing the dead and old layers to peel off, allowing new and healthy skin to emerge. Chemical peeling helps improve skin appearance, reduce wrinkles and pigmentation, and also reduce acne scars and blemishes.

Types of chemical peeling

There are several types of chemical peeling, and each type differs depending on the depth of its effect on the skin.

• Superficial chemical peeling: This is one of the simplest types of peeling, as it works on removing the outer layer of the skin. It is usually used to treat mild skin problems such as dryness or light pigmentation.
• Medium chemical peeling: This type of peeling reaches the middle layer of the skin and helps treat deeper wrinkles, pigmentation, and sun damage. It is used for more advanced cases than superficial peeling.
• Deep chemical peeling: This targets the deeper layers of the skin and is used for more advanced cases such as removing deep wrinkles, surgical scars, and some types of skin lesions. This type requires a longer healing period but delivers long-lasting and effective results.

Benefits of chemical peeling

Chemical peeling provides many cosmetic and therapeutic benefits for the skin.

• Improving skin appearance: Chemical peeling is one of the best ways to improve overall skin appearance. It helps reduce wrinkles and fine lines, giving the skin a more youthful and vibrant look.
• Reducing pigmentation and dark spots: Chemical peeling helps lighten the skin and reduce pigmentation that may result from acne or prolonged sun exposure. It also helps even out skin tone and remove dark spots that affect skin beauty.
• Treating acne and scars: Chemical peeling removes dead skin cells, helping prevent clogged pores that lead to acne. It also helps improve the appearance of acne scars.
• Stimulating cell renewal: By removing dead surface layers, chemical peeling enhances skin cell renewal and stimulates collagen production, the protein responsible for skin elasticity and health.
• Treating keratosis pilaris: Chemical peeling helps treat keratosis pilaris (when small bumps appear on the skin due to clogged pores) and makes the skin smoother.

How is chemical peeling performed?

Chemical peeling is performed by a professional aesthetic specialist or a dermatologist. First, the skin is thoroughly cleansed, then the chemical solution is applied to the target area. Depending on the type of peel, the solution may be left on the skin for a few minutes before being removed. After that, the person may feel some irritation or a burning sensation, but these symptoms are usually temporary.

Post-chemical peeling care tips

Following instructions after the session helps achieve the best results and reduces the likelihood of irritation.

• Sun protection: After chemical peeling, the skin becomes more sensitive to sunlight. Therefore, a high-SPF sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) should be used to avoid skin irritation or new pigmentation.
• Continuous hydration: The skin needs good moisturizing after peeling to ensure proper healing. It is recommended to use gentle moisturizers to avoid dryness.
• Avoid rubbing the skin: It is essential to avoid rubbing or scratching the skin after peeling, as this may lead to irritation and increase the chance of sores or scars.
• Avoid makeup: After peeling, it is preferable to avoid applying makeup for a short period to prevent clogged pores or skin irritation.

Who can benefit from chemical peeling?

Chemical peeling is suitable for people who have superficial skin problems such as pigmentation, fine wrinkles, acne, or scars. However, it may not be suitable for people with very sensitive skin or those who have certain skin conditions such as eczema or rosacea. Therefore, it is important to consult a doctor or specialist before the procedure to ensure it is suitable for the skin.