Our skin renews itself constantly; however, with age this renewal slows down, dead cells accumulate on the surface and the skin begins to look dull, rough and uneven. The chemical peel is a thorough skin-refreshing method that accelerates this renewal in a controlled way with special solutions applied to the skin surface. In many problems such as spots, acne, fine lines and a matte appearance, it gives effective results when chosen at a depth suitable for the skin type.
What is a chemical peel?
A chemical peel is an application in which acid-based solutions applied to the skin cause the upper cell layers to peel off in a controlled way. This peeling encourages new and healthy cells to come to the surface. As a result, the skin becomes smoother, brighter and more even in tone.
The type and concentration of the solution used determine the depth of the peel. Superficial peels affect only the topmost layer, while medium-depth peels provide a more marked renewal. Which depth is suitable is determined according to the skin type, the nature of the problem and the person's return-to-social-life time.
This variety makes the chemical peel a versatile method. Applications of different intensities can be planned in the same person at different times.
In which problems is it preferred?
- Skin tone irregularity and superficial spots.
- Acne and post-acne scars.
- A matte, dull and tired appearance.
- Fine lines and roughness on the skin surface.
- The appearance of enlarged pores.
The chemical peel is used both to target a specific problem and to give the skin a general freshness. When correctly adapted to the skin type, it is a safe and effective option in many skin problems.
In spotted skin, especially in spots of hormonal origin (melasma), the peel is used with a careful plan and appropriate care. Application at the wrong intensity can cause irritation in this type of spot; for this reason evaluation is important.
How is it applied?
Before the application, a skin analysis is carried out and the suitable solution and depth are determined. After the skin is cleansed and prepared, the solution is applied to the skin in a controlled way and left for a certain time. During this, a mild burning or tingling may be felt; this is a sign that the peel is taking effect. When the time is up, the solution is neutralised or cleaned off.
The procedure usually takes a short time. In superficial peels the application is quite comfortable and the return to social life is fast. In deeper peels, the post-procedure process requires a little more care.
The healing process
After the application, redness, a feeling of tightness and, in the following days, mild flaking can be seen in the skin. This is a natural part of the skin's renewal process. In superficial peels these symptoms are mild and pass quickly; in medium-depth peels they can last a few days.
During this period it is very important not to peel the skin and not to pick at crusts or flaking; otherwise scars and spots can develop. Keeping the skin moisturised and using the products recommended by the physician supports healing.
As much as the success of the chemical peel, the sun protection and patience afterwards also determine the result.
Why is sun protection so important?
After a peel the skin is new and sensitive; when left unprotected against the sun, it can easily become discoloured and unwanted spots can develop. For this reason, using a high-factor sunscreen during and after the peel process is indispensable for preserving the result. This is why peels are mostly preferred in periods when the sun is less intense.
A peel done without sun protection can, contrary to expectation, disrupt the skin tone. That is why the peel and sun protection should be thought of as two inseparable steps.
How many sessions are needed?
Superficial peels are usually applied as a series at certain intervals, and the effect accumulates with the sessions. In medium-depth peels, a smaller number of sessions may be sufficient. The number of sessions is personalised according to the skin type, the target and the depth of the problem. The results usually become pronounced gradually and as the skin renews.
Who is it suitable for?
It is suitable for many people who want to improve their skin tone, texture and general appearance. However, in cases of an active skin infection, an open wound, recent intense sun exposure and some skin diseases, it is not applied or is postponed. During pregnancy some types of peel are not preferred.
For this reason a skin evaluation is definitely carried out before the application; the correct choice of solution and depth determines both the safety and the success of the result.
Why is the correct depth so important?
The success of the chemical peel largely depends on choosing the correct depth. Applying a deeper peel than necessary for a superficial problem prolongs the healing time and creates unnecessary risk; conversely, a too superficial peel for a deep problem does not give the expected result. For this reason the peel is planned not with the logic of ‘the stronger the better’ but with an intensity that exactly corresponds to the skin's need.
When choosing the depth, the skin type, the nature of the problem, the person's skin sensitivity and how much they can take a break from social life are evaluated together. Even in the same person, different intensities can be preferred for different areas or different periods. This personalised adjustment is the most important element that makes the chemical peel safe and effective in experienced hands.
The darkness of the skin type is also an important factor. In darker skin, temporary discolouration can be seen after an incorrectly applied peel; for this reason these skins require a more careful approach and appropriate preparation. Correct evaluation both prevents unwanted results and ensures the highest benefit from the treatment.
For all these reasons, the chemical peel, unlike ready-made products applied at home, gives the safest and most successful result when done under the evaluation and supervision of a physician. Professional planning addresses both the solution choice and the before- and after-care as a whole. In addition, preparing the skin with suitable products before the peel both strengthens the result and helps prevent unwanted reactions; this preparation stage is also planned individually.
In summary, the chemical peel is a versatile refreshing method that uses the skin's own power of renewal in a controlled way and, when applied at the correct depth, can address many problems such as spots, acne scars and a matte appearance. When combined with sun protection and correct care, its results are both more marked and more lasting.
At the clinic of Dr. Burcu Çelen, the chemical peel is applied with a holistic plan based on your skin analysis, including the correct depth choice and sun protection. For smoother and brighter skin, you can make an appointment to discuss the most suitable plan for you.