Dr. Shweta Mehata

DDVL, MBBS
Dermatologist | Cosmetologist
Click to know more about doctor : Skin Care Clinic

CHEMICAL PEELS

What is chemical peel?

Chemical peel is a skin rejuvenating & skin resurfacing procedure wherein a liquid /gel of specific composition is applied in a controlled manner to remove dead skin cell layers. The desired depth of skin layers is decided by composition, concentration of peeling agent & skin concern for which it is being utilized. This leads to skin cell renewal and regeneration of healthier skin.

Is the chemical peel treatment for skin time tested?

The use of chemical peel dates back to ‘Queen Cleopatra’, who used to bath in a sour donkey milk which contains a generous amount of Alpha-hydroxy acid Lactic acid, a very common ingredient in chemical peel. The Greeks & Romans, French used soured milk, Grape juice (Tartaric acid), Lemon juice (citric acid), sugarcane extract (Glycolic acid), Almonds ( Mandelic) to clarify skin. Same agents in a more purified forms are being used now as chemical peel agents.

What are the benefits of Chemical peel?

Chemical peels offer multiple benefits for your skin. - It exfoliates your skin thus you get rid of dead skin cells. -It decreases abnormal pigmentation & blemishes on your skin. -Controls acne & oiliness of face skin by decreasing activity of acne forming sebaceous glands. By decreasing melanin production, it treats dark spot. Medium to deep peels stimulates collagen fibers in skin dermis that cures your open pores, acne scars, fine lines and gives you youthful look. So depending on chemical peel types (superficial, medium, deep peels) it treats variety of skin concerns and also maintains healthier looking skin.

What are the types of chemical peels?

1. SUPERFICIAL CHEMICAL PEELS:
These peels cause exfoliation of very superficial layer of skin (part of epidermis). Has less recovery time, can be done more frequently. Mainly used as party peels, for skin texture improvement superficial tanning, oiliness of skin. When superficial peels are done regularly it not only results in epidermal regeneration but also has antiaging effects.
2. MEDIUM DEPTH CHEMICAL PEELS:
These peels reach to some part of dermis, a deep layer in skin. Has recovery time of 5-10 days. Visible micro peeling is seen on face. Done for melasma, fine lines, superficial scars
3. DEEP PEELS:
Penetrate deep in to skin. Take longer time to recover 10-20 days. Mainly done for deep wrinkling, antiaging benefit, acne scars, etc.

Tell me details of actual procedure?

Actual procedure takes approx. 20 to 30 minutes with pre peel cleansing, peel application in 2 or 3 steps, followed by neutralization of peel.

How do I prepare my skin for chemical peel?

Apply moisturizes after every face wash. Follow sun protection. Dermatologist will prescribe you some priming cream for 10 to 14 days before peel to increase the effect of peel.

What are the post care precautions after chemical peels? And side effects if any?

Strict sun protection & moisturization of skin is very important. Very rarely temporary burning or redness leading to skin color change can happen, but that will subside after few days. Side effects are very rare if you follow the instructions & medications as prescribed by Dermatologist. Avoid parlour activities on face for 14 days post peel. Avoid bleaching agents, steam on face for few days.

How many sessions are required? Is their any gap between subsequent sessions?

Number of sessions depends on skin concern & peel type. For concerns like acne, spots, texture minimum 3 to 4 sessions are needed. For skin rejuvenation & maintenance you can go ahead with monthly sessions. Deep peels for deep wrinkling are done once in 6 months. Gap between two sessions varies from 2 weeks to 4 weeks. Party peels can be done on weekly basis if skin is not sensitive.

What are the indications of Chemical peel?

  • Acne/pimples
  • Post acne spots & scars
  • Seborrhea (oilness) of face
  • Open pores
  • Party peels for immediate glow
  • Pigmentation/tanning on face, back, arms
  • Skin texture & tone improvement
  • Skin rejuvenation for dull skin
  • Fine lines & Wrinkles
  • To slow down skin aging