Chemical peeling

What is chemical peeling?

Chemical peeling is a dermatological procedure that involves applying a chemical solution to the skin to exfoliate and remove dead skin layers.

What are the changes chemical peel creates on the skin! It helps in improving skin texture, reducing blemishes, and promoting collagen production for a healthier, rejuvenated appearance.

We all have heard the story of how Cleopatra bathed in milk.(Donkey’s milk 😉 ) Any idea how it could have helped? It is the lactic acid present in it which has had an exfoliating effect on the skin ! So chemical peeling derives its roots from such practices.

Who can get chemical peeling done?

What conditions can be addressed by chemical peels ?

Acne – Peeling in acne is advised when a quicker response is desired, in situations where oral drugs and certain topical medications are not advisable such as pregnancy and lactation. It can simultaneously work on the pigmentation left by the acne.
Pigmentation – Pigmenations post acne, generalised tanning, resistant pigmentations not responding to topical medications, melasma etc,.
Fine wrinkles correction and rejuvenation
Keratosis pilaris / Strawberry skin – arms and thighs
pigmentation around the eyes.
acanthosis nigricans ( darkness neck and underarms )

When does skin become normal after chemical peeling ?

Or what’s the downtime ?

Downtime is the time for the skin to heal after a procedure and it depends on the peel chosen.

Very superficial peels or superficial peels have no downtime. Work can be resumed even the very next day.
Medium depth peels can take a few days for the skin to settle down and peeling will continue to occur for a week. With appropriate post procedure care like sunscreen, moisturisers(applied frequently) , post procedure cream usage, the downtime is shortened and managed comfortably.

What are the adverse or side effects of chemical peeling ?

The modern day peels are very safe to use.

There can be dryness from peeling and mild redness.

For those having recurrent herpes, informing about the same is very important, and the procedure is safely done under an oral antiviral cover.

In most of the cases complications arise from poor post procedural care. The most important advice is to apply sunscreens and to use a non harsh face cleanser.Any harsh cosmetics is to be avoided for a week. The skin should be allowed to peel by itself and should not be meddled with.

How long will the effects last?

For best results, a minimum of 4-6 sessions at the interval of 10 days to 3 weeks depending upon the indication, is recommended.

For any treatment results to sustain, post procedural maintenance is required. With proper maintenance, results last for 6 months to 1 year.

After this period, maintenance sessions can be done once in 3 months or so, depending on the indication.