Everything You Need to Know About Superficial, Medium, and Deep Chemical Peels
Think your dull, uneven, or scarred skin is destined to stay that way forever? Think again. Chemical peels could provide the transformation your skin needs. But with so many different types of peels out there, how do you choose the right one?
Chemical peels improve skin texture and appearance by applying a chemical solution that removes damaged outer layers and triggers skin renewal. The precise solution used determines the peel depth and level of change it creates.
This guide covers everything you need to know about the different types of chemical peels and how to pick the best option for revitalizing your skin. Read on to learn which peel is right for you.
Schedule a consultation with CosMedic LaserMD today to discuss which chemical peel is best suited for your skin goals
What Are Chemical Peels?
Chemical peels use a specialized exfoliating solution to remove damaged or irregular outer skin layers. This kickstarts increased collagen production and new skin cell growth for improved texture, tone, and clarity.
The solution activates a controlled wound healing response in the skin. As the damaged skin sheds and regenerates, surface concerns like wrinkles, scars, and pigmentation are diminished.
Chemical peels can treat everything from dullness and rough texture to pre-cancerous growths. They provide dramatic improvements not possible with non-invasive exfoliating treatments like scrubs or lasers.
What are the Different Types of Chemical Peels?
Chemical peels are typically categorized by depth as superficial, medium, and deep peels. Each type uses different chemicals and penetrates to different layers of the skin.
Superficial Peels
Superficial peels, also called light peels, are the mildest type of chemical peel. They exfoliate the outermost layer of skin, gently smoothing texture and improving tone and clarity.
Common superficial peels include:
- Alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) peels: AHAs like glycolic acid, lactic acid, and fruit acids provide a light exfoliation. They are ideal for treating fine lines, dull skin, mild pigmentation, and breakouts.
- Salicylic acid peels: Salicylic acid penetrates oil and debris in pores. It effectively treats and prevents acne and improves skin texture.
- Enzyme peels: Enzymes derived from sources like papaya and pineapple digest dead skin cells. This brightens skin tone and unclogs pores.
Superficial peels deliver gradual improvements with little downtime. A series of peels is usually recommended for best results. They are safe for most skin types.
Medium-Depth Peels
Medium-depth peels reach the epidermis and upper part of the dermis. They cause more visible exfoliation and skin shedding to reveal newer skin.
The most common medium-depth peel contains:
- Trichloroacetic acid (TCA): Higher concentrations of TCA penetrate deeper than lighter peels. TCA peels are effective at reducing fine lines, wrinkles, and pigmentation as well as treating acne scars.
Medium-depth TCA peels require several days of recovery time. They should not be used on darker skin tones, which are at higher risk of pigmentation problems.
Deep Peels
Deep peels penetrate down into the middle layer of the dermis. They produce the most dramatic results but carry greater risks.
The main type of deep chemical peel is:
- Phenol peels: Phenol is used at a high concentration often combined with TCA. Phenol reaches deep into the layers of skin to smooth significant wrinkles and scars.
Deep phenol peels work best for severely sun-damaged and wrinkled skin. They require sedation or anesthesia during the procedure and extensive recovery time afterwards. Strict precautions must be taken to avoid complications. Deep peels should only be performed by a highly experienced dermatologist.
Schedule a personalized consultation at CosMedic LaserMD to determine the optimal chemical peel for your unique skin needs
Which Type of Chemical Peel is Right For My Skin?
With different levels of chemical peels available, it’s important to choose the type that best addresses your skin concerns and goals. The right peel also depends on your skin type and sensitivity.
Factors a dermatologist considers when selecting a peel include:
| Factor | Description |
| Depth of Skin Damage | Superficial peels address mild issues like dullness, uneven texture, and fine lines, while deeper peels correct concerns like deep wrinkles, acne scars, or sun damage. The depth is matched to the severity of the skin concern. |
| Skin Type and Color | Darker skin tones are more prone to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) after deeper peels, so lighter peels or pre-treatment may be recommended. Sensitive skin also requires careful selection to minimize adverse reactions. |
| Location on Body | Different areas of the body have varying skin thickness and sensitivity. Sensitive areas like the neck, chest, and around the eyes require lighter peels, while thicker skin may tolerate deeper peels. |
| Your Goals | Superficial peels provide a quick skin refresh and subtle improvements, while deeper peels yield dramatic resurfacing for severe issues. Goals influence the choice of peel. |
| Downtime | Deeper peels require longer recovery periods with redness, peeling, and sensitivity, while lighter peels have minimal downtime, allowing quick resumption of activities. |
An in-person skin analysis and consultation is crucial for determining the right chemical peel. Be sure to discuss your medical history, skin concerns, and expectations with your dermatologist.
What Are the Risks and Side Effects of Chemical Peels?
While chemical peels are generally safe when performed correctly, potential side effects can occur. These usually resolve within a week or two.
Possible side effects and risks include:
- Redness, irritation, swelling: Slight stinging and redness are common after any peel. Deeper peels lead to more significant inflammation.
- Skin darkening/lightening: Chemical peels can cause the treated skin to become darker than normal (hyperpigmentation) or lighter than normal (hypopigmentation). Hyperpigmentation is more common after superficial peels, while hypopigmentation is more common after a deep peel.
- Skin peeling: Exfoliation and flaking occurs after most peels. Deeper peels lead to more dramatic peeling.
- Scarring and lesions: Scarring is a rare complication typically occurring on the lower part of the face. Milia (small cysts) may also occur if the acid solution is not correctly neutralized.
- Infection: A chemical peel can lead to bacterial, fungal, or viral infections, such as a flare-up of the herpes virus. Strict sterilization practices and proper post-operative care are crucial to prevent infection.
- Allergic reaction: Some ingredients may trigger an allergic response like itching, rash, or hives.
Proper post-peel skin care greatly reduces side effects and complications. Always follow your dermatologist’s instructions closely after a chemical peel. Let them know right away if any concerning reactions develop.
How to Prepare for a Chemical Peel
Preparing your skin ahead of a chemical peel helps maximize results and minimize risks. Be sure to discuss how to get your skin ready with your dermatologist.
Pre-peel preparations may include:
| Avoiding Sun Exposure | Recent sun exposure increases skin sensitivity to peel chemicals. Avoid the sun for at least two weeks before the peel. |
| Stopping Retinoids and Exfoliants | Discontinue irritating products like retinol and scrubs about 5 days before the peel. |
| Moisturizing Diligently | Keep skin well-hydrated before the peel to promote easier healing post-treatment. |
| Using Hydroquinone | A prescription cream may be recommended to prevent post-peel dark spots if you’re prone to pigmentation. |
| Avoiding Irritants | Avoid chemicals, harsh products, and fragrances around the time of the peel. |
| Prepping with Gentle Products | Use non-irritating cleansers, toners, and moisturizers as part of your skincare routine. |
| Priming with Retinoids | In some cases, retinoids may be prescribed about two weeks before the peel to boost cell turnover. |
Pre-conditioning the skin allows for deeper peeling with less side effects. Be diligent about any pre-peel regimen advised by your dermatologist.
CosMedic LaserMD provides specialized pre-treatment skincare regimens to optimize your skin for safe, effective chemical peels. Contact us today
How to Care for Your Skin After a Chemical Peel
Post-procedure care is crucial for healing properly after a chemical peel. Follow these tips to prevent complications and maximize your results:
- Use a bland, fragrance-free cleanser while skin is sensitive and peeling.
- Hydrate skin with a lightweight, fragrance-free moisturizer to reduce dryness.
- Stay out of the sun completely until skin has fully healed. Use broad spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen diligently afterwards.
- Allow skin to naturally slough off, don’t forcefully peel or scrub.
- Avoid prolonged heat which can worsen skin sensitivity. Cool showers, compresses and moisturizers soothe discomfort.
- Follow directions for applying any topical medications like anti-inflammatory creams.
- Harsh ingredients, makeup, and friction can irritate freshly peeled skin.
- Report any concerning symptoms like severe pain, oozing, or swelling to your dermatologist.
Closely following post-procedure guidelines minimizes risks and keeps your skin calm while healing. Always consult your dermatologist about when it’s safe to resume your normal skincare regimen.
Conclusion
Chemical peels offer an effective way to achieve fresher, smoother, more youthful looking skin. The type of peel used should be carefully selected based on your specific skin goals, concerns, and tolerance. Superficial peels provide gentle exfoliation while medium and deep peels create more dramatic changes at the cost of increased recovery time.
It’s essential to choose an experienced medical provider like CosMedic LaserMD for your chemical peel. Their expertise ensures proper peel selection, safe procedure protocols, and attentive post-peel care for optimal results. With the right provider and treatment plan tailored to your skin, chemical peels can help you look your absolute best.
[Transform your skin with a customized chemical peel treatment plan from the professionals at CosMedic LaserMD. Book your consultation today.]
