There are three categories of chemical peels, distinguished by the depth of skin exfoliation they provide:
- shallow peels
- medium peels
- deep peels
Selecting the appropriate option relies on an individual’s skin type and color, as well as the specific concern they wish to treat.
Shallow Peels
For issues affecting only the outermost skin layer, known as the epidermis, dermatologists often suggest shallow peels.
Since these peels don’t reach the deeper layers, they present minimal risk of side effects, and recovery tends to be faster.
Healing from shallow peels ranges from one to seven days. During this period, using sunscreen is essential.
As shallow peels are the least intense, achieving desired results may require up to five treatments. Individuals may schedule these peels every two to five weeks.
Medium Peels
Dermatologists might recommend medium peels for:
fine lines
skin damaged by the sun
slight hyperpigmentation
small acne marks
Healing time for medium peels is typically between seven to fourteen days. Patients may experience swelling that peaks 48 hours post-treatment and possibly develop blisters.
The dermatologist will provide a specific solution to aid recovery. It’s also crucial to limit sun exposure during the healing process.
Additionally, the dermatologist might suggest an antiviral drug for a duration of 10–14 days. Makeup can usually be applied after five to seven days, but full sun exposure should be avoided until the skin has completely healed.
Deep Peels
Deep chemical peels are not commonly recommended by dermatologists. For concerns affecting deeper layers of the skin, laser treatments tend to yield better results.
Nonetheless, a dermatologist might suggest a deep peel for individuals dealing with:
moderate to severe sun damage
moderate to severe wrinkles
moderate to severe hyperpigmentation
Because deep peels are quite potent, the recovery period lasts from 14 to 21 days. A patient must:
Recover at home.
Take antiviral medication for 10–14 days.
Cleanse the skin using a special solution four to six times daily.
Use an ointment for 14 days, followed by a thick moisturizer.
Refrain from using makeup for a minimum of 14 days.
Steer clear of sun exposure for 3 to 6 months.
Possible Side Effects
Side effects from a chemical peel tend to be mild. However, some individuals may experience persistent negative effects, including:
prolonged redness
temporary darker areas of skin
permanently lighter spots on the skin
scarring
The best approach to minimizing these risks involves consulting an experienced dermatologist and adhering closely to their aftercare advice.
Professional Versus At-Home Treatments
Choosing a dermatologist knowledgeable about Chemical Peel in Singapore is vital. This is particularly true for individuals of color, whose skin can be more susceptible to the adverse effects of these treatments.
The dermatologist will provide guidance on the most suitable peel for a person’s skin and recommend products that will facilitate healing afterward.
People with more significant skin issues may benefit more from professional treatments, which typically contain higher levels of acid compared to over-the-counter products.