Skin peeling treatments to rejuvenate the face

The desire to improve the skin is centuries old, even dating back to times such as ancient Egypt, when women would apply fermented grape skins to their face in an attempt to smooth their skin – one of the earliest known forms of what we know today as glycolic peeling. Today the procedure is still popular, but it comes in many forms. Here, we find out more about the different kinds of chemical peel offered and how they can rejuvenate the skin. 

What can skin peeling treatments help with?

Skin peeling treatments can help with a range of skin issues, such as sun spots, uneven pigmentation, wrinkles, acne scarring, and improving the general quality of the skin. Over time the outer layer of skin, which protects the body from the rays of the sun, infection, and pollution, cannot regenerate quickly enough when harmed, and as a result fresh new skin cannot come to the surface. The outer layer therefore shows scarring, redness, or hyperpigmentation, making it uneven in tone or marked in some way.

Skin peeling speeds up regeneration in the skin, and allows healthy skin to come to the surface. Chemical peeling allows new collagen, a protein produced by our cells that keeps the skin plump and healthy, to come to the surface, and keep it looking younger and firmer. Some popular areas for treatment are the face, the backs of the hands, and the décolletage area.

What kind of skin peeling treatments are there?

Superficial peels, e.g Glycolic peels

For simple, everyday exfoliation, and superficial peeling, glycolic peels are among the most common choice. Glycolic peels are also known as AHAs (alphahydroxy acids) or salycic acid peels, and are often present in over the counter skincare products used for mild exfoliation. These peels work by breaking down the substances holding dead skin together, so dead skin is removed and the surface of the skin is renewed. These peels are superficial, and are usually given over a course of weeks, with a minimum course of around four AHA-based peels.

Medium peels, e.g TCAs

Medium peels can be used to treat sun damage and uneven pigmentation. TCA (trichlorocetic acid) is the most common chemical used for the treatment, and this procedure will usually be followed by a week of skin peeling – skin almost looks as if it has a layer of cling film on it. This type of peel is usually favoured by those who have more serious skin issues such as acne scarring or sun damage, or by patients who wish to see quicker results.

Do chemical peels hurt?

A mild stinging sensation may be felt during a superficial peel, but with medium peels such as TCA peeling, the discomfort can be higher and a burning sensation may occur, though this is never severe and is normal for many patients. Chemical peels should be administered by a trained professional, who can help control pain or discomfort during the procedure by applying a neutraliser into the skin.

Chemical peel aftercare

After any type of peel, hydration is key. You should use creams or products provided or recommended to you by the specialist, and not forget to put on sun cream, which should be applied daily throughout the year anyway. Try to avoid sun exposure for a period of time, and be aware that flaking and peeling after the procedure is completely normal.