Wellness
A Guide to Chemical Peel Types
An overview of the different types of chemical peels, from light to deep, and how they can improve skin texture, tone, and overall appearance.
What is it?
A chemical peel is a cosmetic, skin-resurfacing procedure that uses a chemical solution to remove the outer layers of the skin. This controlled injury prompts the skin to regenerate, revealing smoother, more youthful skin underneath. Peels are categorized by their depth: light (superficial), medium, and deep. Light peels use mild acids like alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) or beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) for gentle exfoliation. Medium peels, often using trichloroacetic acid (TCA), reach the middle layers of skin to target more significant damage. Deep peels use stronger agents like phenol to penetrate the deeper dermal layers for dramatic results.
Why is it trending?
Chemical peels are popular for their ability to effectively treat a wide range of skin concerns. They are sought after for reducing fine lines and wrinkles, correcting sun damage, minimizing acne scars, and evening out skin tone and hyperpigmentation. The treatment promotes collagen production and new cell growth, which helps improve the skin's overall texture and radiance. As people increasingly seek non-invasive methods for skin rejuvenation, chemical peels offer a versatile solution that can be customized to different skin types and issues, delivering noticeable improvements.
How does it affect people?
The effects of a chemical peel vary by type. A light peel may cause temporary redness, dryness, and mild irritation, with minimal downtime. Medium peels result in more significant redness, swelling, and skin peeling that can last one to two weeks. Deep peels involve a longer, more complex recovery with severe swelling and redness. Post-treatment, the new skin is smoother and clearer but is temporarily more sensitive to the sun. While benefits include improved skin tone and texture, potential risks include scarring, changes in skin color (hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation), and infection.