The process of destroying the outer layers of the skin with chemical agents in order to obtain a healthier, lively, smooth and taut skin is called chemical peeling. Chemical peeling can be done with many substances such as TCA, phenol, resorcinol, lactic acid, citric acid, and glycolic acid. A specialist physician decides which of these methods will be applied to the patient
Areas of Usage of Chemical Peeling
- Wrinkles and fine lines
- Melasma (brown spots)
- Acne and superficial acne scars
- Skin rejuvenation and regeneration
- Freckles and sunspots
- Revitalization of sun damaged skin
- Increasing the natural brightness of the skin
- Shrinking the pores of the skin
Regardless of which substance is used to perform the peeling process, unnecessary cells on the upper part of the skin are removed and fresh and undamaged skin underneath is exposed. In this way, the structure and construction of the fresh skin below is stimulated. With the activation of the skin, a healthy, firm, and fuller appearance is achieved.
Today, Alpha hydroxy acids (AHA) are used especially in cases requiring superficial peeling. AHA is naturally found in various fruits and foods and is known as fruit acids. This group contains many fruit acids, and the most commonly used today is glycolic acid naturally present in sugarcane juice. With the glycolic acid method, the epidermis layer of the skin is partially removed, and the cells are renewed, and the skin is revitalized. This method renews the skin in a more controlled way than deep peeling methods. Glycolic acid is the most common superficial peeling agent used today.
In the application of Glycolic Acid, the skin is prepared for peeling for at least 2 weeks with a product recommended by the doctor. After this preparation period, peeling is started. The average peeling session interval is 2-4 weeks, the number of sessions is 6-7, but this number may vary depending on the purpose of the treatment and on the patient. Using gels, lotions or creams recommended by the doctor after the session would continue the skin rejuvenation process between peeling sessions. Peeling should not be applied to patients with active herpes history, wound or tiny clefts in the skin, recent surgical intervention (wound healing), previously applied peeling or dermabrasion to the same area, recent radiation therapy, use of the drug named Roaccutane within 6 months, cryotherapy in one month, excessive sunburn, eyebrow and mustache removal on the same day, scrub application on the face, and excessive scar tissue formation. If the patient has allergies, eczema, seborrheic dermatitis, diseases affecting the immune system, viral diseases (including herpes) and sun sensitivity, these diseases should be treated first.
Depending on the type of peeling, it may produce a feeling of superficial or deep sunburn. Superficial peels usually include redness between three and five days. Normal and deep peels can sometimes cause sweating and blistering, and rashes between seven and fourteen days or more. Since the new skin is fragile and sensitive after the use of chemical peels, it is important to protect it from the sun’s rays. Your doctor will prescribe a suitable prescription to treat your skin burn.
