Chemical peels are a popular method for addressing various skin concerns. However, with a wide range of chemical peel formulas available, using the wrong one can result in undesirable outcomes. As such, it’s important to have an experienced doctor determine which chemical peel is best suited for an individual’s specific needs.
Chemical peels are commonly used to address skin concerns such as dull skin, fine lines, acne, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and melasma.
Glycolic acid is the preferred chemical peel for addressing dull skin. It works by breaking down intercellular bridges between skin cells in the stratum corneum, allowing for faster shedding of dead skin cells and encouraging cellular turnover. After treatment, patients often notice smoother, more radiant skin.
For fine lines, a combination of glycolic acid, lactic acid, and peptides is often used. This combination has been shown to reduce the appearance of fine lines.
A combination of resorcinol, salicylic acid, and lactic acid in Modified Jessner’s Solution is often used for acne-prone skin. This type of chemical peel is stronger and typically only used by doctors. It helps to control acne, reduce post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and clogged pores, and is a gentler treatment for the dermis.
For post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and melasma, trichloroacetic acid is used in conjunction with daily application of hydroquinone.
When used appropriately, chemical peels can provide outcomes that other treatments cannot. Unfortunately, some beauty salons have misconceptions about chemical peels and may administer them improperly, leading to misunderstandings about chemical peels.