Chemical Peels: Types of Chemical Peels

Types of Chemical Peels

There are various types of Chemical Peels. Let's dive into the most common peels that suit various skin conditions and skin types.

Superficial Chemical Peels

This type of peel uses mild acids like alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) to exfoliate the outermost layer of the skin. It helps to improve the texture and tone of the skin and can be done regularly without any downtime. are the mildest type of chemical peel and are suitable for all skin types.

They are also known as lunchtime peels because they can be done quickly and with no downtime. Superficial peels use a solution of AHAs or BHAs, such as glycolic acid or salicylic acid, to remove the top layer of dead skin cells. They are effective at reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and sun damage, and can also help to improve skin texture and tone.

Glycolic Acid Peel

This type of peel uses glycolic acid, which is an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from sugar cane. It is a mild peel that is good for treating fine lines, dullness, and uneven skin tone.

Lactic Acid Peel

This peel uses lactic acid, which is another type of AHA that is derived from milk. It is a gentle peel that is good for treating hyperpigmentation and dry skin.

Mandelic Acid Peel

Mandelic acid peel is a type of AHA peel that uses mandelic acid, an alpha-hydroxy acid derived from bitter almonds, to exfoliate the outermost layer of the skin. Mandelic acid peels are gentle and well-tolerated, making them a good option for individuals with sensitive skin.

Salicylic Acid Peel

This peel uses salicylic acid, which is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) derived from willow bark. It is an effective peel for treating acne, oily skin, and clogged pores.

It's important to note that while superficial chemical peels are generally safe and effective, they should only be performed by a licensed and experienced aesthetician or dermatologist. It's also important to follow all aftercare instructions carefully to ensure the best possible results.

Medium Depth Chemical Peels

Medium-depth chemical peels are a type of skin treatment that utilizes a chemical solution to remove the outermost layers of the skin, promoting skin regeneration and improving skin texture and tone. Here are some of the types of medium-depth chemical peels and their descriptions:

Glycolic Peel

Glycolic acid peel is a superficial to medium-depth peel that uses glycolic acid to exfoliate the outer layer of the skin. This type of peel is typically used to treat fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation. It can take up to a week to heal.

Jessner's Peel

Jessner's peel is a medium-depth chemical peel that is made up of a combination of salicylic acid, lactic acid, and resorcinol. This type of peel is usually used to treat acne, fine lines, and uneven skin tone. It can take up to a week to heal.

TCA Peel

Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) peel is a medium to deep peel that is less aggressive than phenol. It is typically used to treat fine lines, sun damage, and acne scars. TCA peel involves the application of a chemical solution to the skin, which causes the outer layers of the skin to peel off. It can take up to a week to heal.

On another side note, medium-depth chemical peels can cause more shedding than their superficial counterparts. That will depend on the formulation of the peel, your skin health, and the number of layers your skincare professional essentially applies. These peels, like all peels, should ONLY be done by a professional to ensure the health and safety of your skin. You must follow all aftercare instructions carefully to ensure the best possible results.

Deep Chemical Peels

Deep-depth chemical peels are a type of chemical peel that penetrates deeper into the skin, reaching the dermis layer. They are typically used to treat severe wrinkles, scars, and hyperpigmentation. Here are some of the most common types of deep-depth chemical peels and their descriptions:

Phenol Peel

A phenol peel is the deepest and most aggressive type of chemical peel that can reach the deepest layer of the skin. It involves the application of a strong chemical solution (phenol) to the skin. This type of peel is usually performed under local anesthesia due to its depth and can take several weeks to heal. It can be effective in treating deep wrinkles, sun damage, and scars. Avoid direct sun exposure as much as possible and wear broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 if you must be in the sun.

TCA Peel

Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) peel is a medium to deep peel that is less aggressive than phenol. It is typically used to treat fine lines, sun damage, and acne scars. TCA peel involves the application of a chemical solution to the skin, which causes the outer layers of the skin to peel off. It can take up to a week to heal.

Before receiving a chemical peel you should have a consultation with your licensed professional to determine your skin type, conditions, concerns, and any medical issues that may affect your suitability for the treatment.

Your professional should also assess your skin for any contraindications or areas that may require special attention.

I prefer to do a patch test on the jawline or on the neck in an inconspicuous place to determine the sensitivity of the skin.

Based on your skin type/conditions, your professional will choose the type of peel for you.

Please remember to follow the guidelines your skincare professional has given you. Not all peels are made the same, and some may have fewer or more things for you to avoid to ensure a safe service.

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