Chemical Peels
Chemical peels are a body treatment technique used to improve and smooth the texture of facial skin using a chemical solution that removes and ultimately sloughs off dead skin. The regenerated skin is generally smoother and less wrinkled than old skin.
Thus, the term chemical peel was born. Some chemical peels can be purchased and used without a medical license; However, people should seek help from a dermatologist, esthetician, or cosmetic surgeon for a specific type of chemical peel before undergoing any procedure.
Alpha hydroxy acid peels
Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) are natural carboxylic acids that offer various benefits for the skin. Glycolic acid, derived from sugarcane juice, and lactic acid, found in yogurt and tomato juice, are two common examples of AHAs. These acids are known for their gentle exfoliating properties, making them ideal for treating fine wrinkles, dry areas, uneven pigmentation, and acne.
AHAs can be used in different forms. For example, they can be mixed with cleansers or facial creams in lower concentrations to improve skin texture as part of a daily skincare routine. The five most common fruit acids used in skincare are citric acid, glycolic acid, lactic acid, malic acid, and tartaric acid. However, there are other AHAs available and utilized in skincare products.
It’s important to note that AHA peels are not specifically indicated for the treatment of wrinkles. Instead, they are primarily used to address the aforementioned skin concerns. While AHA peels are generally well-tolerated, they may cause temporary stinging, redness, mild skin irritation, and dryness.
Beta hydroxy acid peels
The use of beta hydroxy acid (BHA) peels in place of stronger alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) peels is becoming more popular due to BHA’s ability to penetrate deeper into pores than AHAs. Studies show that BHA peels also control sebum secretion and acne because they remove dead skin cells to some extent better than AHAs, as AHAs only work on the surface of the skin. Salicylic acid is beta-hydroxy acid.
Jessner’s peel
Jessner’s Peel Solution, earlier known as Coombe’s Formula, was founded by Dr. Max Jessner, a German-American dermatologist. Dr. Jessner combined 14% salicylic acid, lactic acid, and resorcinol in an ethanol base.It is thought to disrupt the intracellular bridges between keratinocytes.It is difficult to “over-peel” the skin due to the low incidence involved with an acidic combination and does not penetrate as deeply as other types of chemical peels.
Retinoic acid peel
Retinoic acid, a derivative of vitamin A, is indeed a retinoid. It is commonly used in skincare products and treatments due to its ability to promote skin cell turnover and improve the appearance of the skin. It is a type of facial peel that utilizes retinoic acid is typically performed in the office of a plastic surgeon, oral and maxillofacial surgeon, or dermatologist, often in a medical spa setting. This type of peel is considered a deeper peel compared to a beta hydroxy acid peel. The primary purpose of a retinoic acid peel is to address various skin issues such as scars, wrinkles, and pigmentation problems. By promoting exfoliation and stimulating collagen production, it can help improve the overall texture and tone of the skin.
This retinoic acid peel may be performed in conjunction with a Jessner peel. The Jessner peel is a superficial chemical peel that helps prepare the skin for the retinoic acid peel by removing dead skin cells and allowing the retinoic acid to penetrate deeper into the skin.After the peel treatment, clients may experience peeling of the skin, which typically begins on the third day following the procedure. This peeling process is a natural part of the skin’s renewal process and can contribute to a fresher, more rejuvenated appearance.
