Chemical peeling is a dermatology treatment that causes an intentional uniform removal of skin cells, resulting in skin rejuvenation. The procedure treats photoaging, scars, acne, hyperpigmentation, and skin conditions like melisma. You can choose a superficial peel like glycolic or lactic acid, a medium peel like Salicylic acid, or a deep peel like Trichloroacetic acid. The type of chemical peel you choose depends on your concerns, aesthetic wishes, and tolerance post-procedure. Here is a detailed analysis to help you select the right peel for your skin:
Glycolic Acid Chemical Peel
Glycolic acid (GA) is an alpha-hydroxy acid peel used for light peels as it easily penetrates the skin and offers a higher level of control. At lower concentrations of about 20%, glycolic acid is a superficial peel, but at higher concentrations of 70%, they are considered medium. GA peels have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits and also have keratolytic effects, meaning they help break down dead skin cells, leading to exfoliation. After application, the solution is neutralized to prevent further acidification. Dermatology specialists can use GA peels to treat acne, photodamage, melasma, light hyperpigmentation, and small scars.
Salicylic Acid Chemical peel
Unlike glycolic acid, salicylic acid (SA) is lipid soluble, so it is miscible in the fat layer of the epidermis and hair follicles. SA also has keratolytic and comedolytic effects, which means it can reduce acne and inhibit the formation of new blemishes. It also reduces sebum secretion among people with acne and causes the skin cells to loosen. These properties make SA peel viable as a medium peel for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, acne vulgaris, freckles, wrinkles, and rough skin. SA peels are safe for all ethnic and racial groups but are often contraindicated among people with active dermatitis, infection, and tanned skin.
Lactic Acid Chemical Peel
Lactic acid is a natural organic solution used as a gentle light peel. It can hold and absorb moisture, making it ideal for skin hydration and cell renewal. Lactic acid peels have lower irritation than other acids, helping it balance gentleness and effectiveness. This peel is compatible with most skin types and is less likely to cause an allergic reaction, meaning it is a good option as a first-time chemical peel or for people with sensitive skin or rosacea. Lactic acid signals collagen synthesis and skin cell regeneration and turnover, which can accelerate wound repair. It is also an effective skin barrier and may improve skin resilience. These properties make lactic acid an effective chemical peel, which results in smooth, elastic, and soft skin. Its uses in dermatology help treat acne, photoaging, melisma, acanthosis nigricans, and dark circles.
Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA) Chemical Peel
TCA is a medium or deep peel that mostly treats photo-aging, wrinkles, and severe hyperpigmentation. It causes proteins to denature in a process called keratocoagulation which makes it ideal for deeper peels. TCA skin peeling treats disorders caused by sun damage including actinic keratosis and dermatitis. It improves skin elasticity and reduces wrinkling by promoting collagen synthesis. After the application, patients might experience tingling and warm sensations, but they usually disappear in a few hours.
Visit a Dermatology Clinic near You Today
Choosing the right type of chemical peel depends on the skin condition you want to treat or the aesthetic you want to achieve. Superficial peels like lactic acid and glycolic acid are ideal for acne, dark circles, and small scarring. Medium peels with SA or TCA help with severe hyperpigmentation and skin disorders like melisma. Deeper peels like TCA address issues caused by severe sun damage. Schedule a consultation to evaluate your skin type and receive personalized advice on what peel is right for you.
