Chemical Peeling

What is Chemical Peeling?

Chemical peeling is a skin treatment that rejuvenates the skin by removing the top layers of the skin with the application of chemical acids. The treatment exfoliates the skin, accelerates the formation of even and clearer skin. It also cleans the pores and hinders future breakouts. Therefore this procedure is usually used to treat acne & scar on the face and on the back of the body.

When it is done consistently and repeatedly, it stimulates the formation of new collagen under the skin. Therefore it is also an anti-ageing procedure.

What are the benefits of Chemical Peeling?

The chemical peel helps to treat acne, like the blackheads, whiteheads and the mild superficial acne scars.
The chemical peel helps to lighten pigmentation on the skin. e.g sun spots, freckles and superficial melasma. It also enhances benefits from the use of a topical retinoid.
The chemical peel helps to minimize fine wrinkles e.g. around the eyes. But it does not treat severe wrinkles.

What are the Types of Chemical Peels?

There are 3 main types of Chemical peels, the Glycolic Acid Peel, the Salicylic Acid Peel and Trichloroacetic Acid Peel.

1. Glycolic Acid Peels

Glycolic acid is the most frequently used alpha-hydroxy acids (AHA) for skin peeling. AHA affect only the superficial layer of your skin and are well tolerated. They remove minor impurities on the skin surface; lighten mild pigmentation and thus lead to even and clearer skin.

A single glycolic acid peel treatment may be completed in 15 minutes and you can immediately return to normal activities. These peels require no downtime and are the true “lunch-time peels”. After the procedure, there is a slight redness of the skin that will disappear very quickly.

2. Salicylic Acid Peels

Salicylic acid is the only BHA (Beta-Hydroxy Acid) used in skin peeling. Salicylic acid can peel both the skin surface and the pores. After rinsing off the peel, the acid crystals remain in the pores to provide a prolonged cleansing effect. Thus salicylic acid peels are useful for general exfoliation in patients with photoaging and comedonal acne.

3. Trichloroacetic acid Peels – Blue Peel

OBAGI Blue Peel is a highly controlled Trichloroacetic acid (TCA)-based skin peeling procedure that uses 15-30% TCA. It provides deeper skin restoration and treats specific skin disorders that require full exfoliation and complete skin cell renewal. The average downtime is 7-10 days.

For maximum improvement of wrinkles, surface scars, and dermal pigmentation, more than 1 session of Trichloroacetic Acid Peel may be needed. Wrinkles and scars that disappear with gentle stretching usually will respond better than the non-stretchable ones.

How do I look after my skin after the Peel?

You need to cleanse the skin gently and apply emollient cream frequently
Do not scratch, pick or peel off the scabs if there is any. Glycolic acid peels do not usually have this concern
Avoid the sun, use sunblock for at least the next 7 days
Do not use your routine anti-ageing skin cream till a week later

What are the limitations of Chemical Peels?

Chemical peels cannot change the pore size or broken veins on the skin. Gentle peels cannot remove deep scars, deep wrinkles or sagging skin. Laser and other surgery may be needed for such problems.

During the consultation, you can communicate your concerns and needs to Dr Wong. He will recommend the most appropriate treatment plan for your skin condition and desired results. Chemical peels are usually safe and effective when it is done for the right indications.

Are you interested to find out more which Chemical Peel can benefit your skin?

Call us now to make an appointment to see our Skin Specialist, Dr Wong Soon Tee.