What are the different types of Peels?
There three basic levels of peels. There are Deep Peels, Medium Depth Peels, and Superficial Peels. Deep Peels are sometimes called surgical peels and should only be performed by a dermatologist or a plastic surgeon. This type of peel requires sedation and anesthesia and also requires pain medication during recovery. This peel treats severely sun damaged skin and very deep and widespread wrinkling. It takes up to 6-8 weeks to heal and can takes several additional months before the redness from the peel subsides. Medium depth peels are performed using trichloroacetic acid (TCA). This peel should also be performed by a dermatologist or plastic surgeon as it removes the entire epidermis and some dermal tissue. Superficial peels are light peels that only remove corneum cells from the epidermis. Mild acids or enzymes are utilized to remove or dissolve the surface keratinocytes. Superficial peels do not cause blistering or bleeding.
How can peels help aging skin?
Superficial peels can make the skin look a lot smoother, helping to improve rough textures and reduces the depth of surface lines and wrinkles. It is especially effective for fine lines around the eyes. It also helps to fade splotchiness and improve hyper-pigmentation. The most common type of superficial peel administered is the alpha hydroxy acid peel. These AHA treatments used by estheticians are about three times the concentration of home care AHA’s. This can be performed safely 2-3 times a year. Salicylic acid peels are also sometimes used by estheticians. These are slightly stronger than most AHA peels and are administered less often. Jessner’s peels are a chemical combination of salicylic acid, resorcinol, and lactic acid. This is the strongest peel an esthetician can perform without medical supervision. It is best to address your concerns with your facial specialist (esthetician) so that they can determine what the best course of treatment is for you.