Chemical peeling: Benefits, risks and contraindications to know

Chemical peels are a great way to take care of your skin to make it look better and more radiant. Using an acid solution, these treatments remove dead cells from the top layer of the skin, stimulating cell regeneration to reveal softer, smoother and more radiant skin.

In this article, we'll explore the different types of chemical peels — alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), trichloroacetic acid (TCA), and phenol — and explain how each can help you. achieve younger, healthier looking skin.

We will also discuss the risks and contraindications to take into account before you start, and give you advice on how to successfully perform your chemical peel like a pro.

The different types of chemical peels

There are several types of chemical peels available to help you achieve the skin of your dreams. AHAs, BHAs, TCA and phenol are some of the most commonly used peels.

Don't worry, we'll explain what each type of peel is, what it can do for your skin, and how it can help you achieve your beauty goals.

Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs)

Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) are natural organic acids derived from fruits such as citrus fruits, apples, grapes and cranberries. They are used to exfoliate the skin by removing dead cells from the top layer, which stimulates cell regeneration and helps reduce the appearance of fine lines, age spots and spots. acne scars.

AHAs are often used to treat dry, dull skin, as they have moisturizing properties that help retain moisture in the skin. They are also useful for treating oily skin and enlarged pores, as they can help loosen impurities and excess oil.

There are several types of AHAs, including glycolic acid, lactic acid, citric acid, and malic acid. Glycolic acid is most commonly used because it has the smallest molecule, which allows it to penetrate the skin more easily.

AHA peels are generally mild and does not require recovery time. However, they can cause mild skin irritation, so it is important to use them with care and follow the instructions of the product or your esthetician.

If you have sensitive skin, we will recommend a low-concentration AHA peel or we will opt for another type of chemical peel.

Beta-hydroxy acids (BHA)

Beta hydroxy acids (BHA) are salicylic acids, derived from salicylic acid, a compound derived from willow bark. They are often used to treat skin problems such as acne, blackheads and enlarged pores.

BHAs have a similar molecular structure to AHAs, but they have a larger molecular size which makes them less irritating to the skin. They also have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce acne inflammation.

BHA peels can help exfoliate the skin by removing dead cells from the top layer, which can improve skin texture and clarity. BHAs are particularly useful for oily and acne-prone skin as they can penetrate deep into the pores to dislodge impurities and excess oil.

However, BHAs can cause mild skin irritation, especially for sensitive skin. It is important to follow the product instructions and not to use BHA peels more often than recommended.

If you have sensitive skin or have allergies to aspirin, it's best not to use BHA peels. In this case, it is recommended to opt for another type of chemical peel or to consult a beauty professional for personalized advice.

Trichloroacetic acid (TCA)

Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) is an organic acid commonly used for medium and deep peels. It is often used to treat wrinkles, acne scars, age spots and skin blemishes.

TCA peels are more powerful than AHA and BHA peels and can cause severe peeling of the skin for several days. TCA peels are often used for mature or sun-damaged skin, as they can help stimulate collagen production and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

However, TCA peels are not suitable for all skin types as they can cause side effects such as redness, crusting and severe flaking. They may also not be recommended for dark skin tones as they can cause hyperpigmentation.

If you opt for a TCA chemical peel, it is imperative to follow the instructions of your esthetician carefully, and in particular to protect your skin from the sun during the recovery period. The use of appropriate care products is necessary to help speed up the healing process.

Phenol

Phenol is a powerful acid used for deep chemical peels. Phenol peels are often used to treat deep wrinkles, acne scars, age spots and pre-cancerous lesions.

Phenol penetrates deep into the skin to slough off dead cells from the top layer, stimulating the production of collagen and elastin for firmer, younger-looking skin. Phenol peels have long-lasting results and can dramatically improve the appearance of the skin.

However, phenol peels are the most aggressive of the chemical peels and can cause serious side effects such as pain, burning, crusting, severe scaling and depigmentation of the skin. Phenol peels should only be performed by trained professionals in a medical environment.

Phenol peels are generally reserved for people with serious skin problems and are not recommended for dark skin due to an increased risk of permanent depigmentation. They also require a longer recovery period and rigorous sun protection for several months after treatment.

If you're considering a phenol chemical peel, it's important to discuss the risks with a dermatologist or plastic surgeon to determine if this treatment is appropriate.

Dangers and contraindications of chemical peels

Although chemical peels are generally safe, they can cause unwanted side effects if used incorrectly or if used on the wrong skin types.

In this section, we'll discuss the dangers and contraindications of chemical peels, as well as steps you can take to minimize the risks and get the most benefits from chemical peels.

Risk of irritation and burns

Chemical peels can cause skin irritation, especially for sensitive skin. Alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) and beta hydroxy acid (BHA) peels are generally gentler and have less chance of irritation than stronger chemical peels like phenol. However, it is important to follow the instructions of the product or your esthetician and test the product on a small area of skin before using it on the whole face.

Chemical peels can also cause chemical burns if used improperly or left on the skin for too long. Deep chemical peels like phenol peels have a higher risk of chemical burns than lighter peels like AHA and BHA peels. If you are performing these peels at home, it is important to follow the recommended application times and to carefully monitor your skin during the peeling process.

If you experience excessive pain or burning during or after a chemical peel, it is important to consult us immediately. Chemical burns can lead to scarring and permanent skin damage if not treated quickly and properly.

It's also important to avoid chemical peels if you have damaged skin or have recently had surgery or laser treatment. Chemical peels can delay skin healing and cause complications.

Risks of infections

Chemical peeling can cause a temporary decrease in the skin's skin barrier, increasing the risk of bacterial or fungal infections. It is therefore important to follow the instructions of your beautician to clean and disinfect your skin before and after the treatment.

It is also important to avoid touching your face during the recovery period to avoid spreading bacteria or viruses to the skin. Also avoid using skin care products that contain irritating or potentially allergenic ingredients during the recovery period.

If you notice any signs of infection such as pain, warmth, redness or abnormal discharge, contact us immediately. Skin infections can be serious and require medical treatment to prevent potential complications.

Contraindications for chemical peeling

Although chemical peels can be beneficial for many people, there are some contraindications that should be considered before proceeding with treatment.

Chemical peels are not recommended for people with a history of skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis or lupus, as well as people with skin lesions, infections or rashes. Chemical peels can make these conditions worse and cause pain or complications.

Chemical peels may also not be suitable for people with very sensitive skin or allergies to chemical peel ingredients. In this case, it is important to consult us for personalized advice.

Finally, chemical peels should not be performed on pregnant or breastfeeding women. The effects of chemical peels on the fetus or infant are not yet known, so it is best not to take unnecessary risks.

It is important to discuss your medical history and concerns with your esthetician before having a chemical peel. We can advise you on the most appropriate treatments for your skin type and your medical condition, and if necessary encourage you to consult a health professional.

Conclusion

Chemical peels can be a great way to refresh and revitalize your skin, removing dead surface cells and stimulating the production of collagen and elastin. However, it is important to understand the different types of chemical peels, their benefits and risks, and contraindications to avoid potential complications.

It's also important to follow your esthetician's instructions to minimize the risks and maximize the benefits of chemical peels. Also, avoid overestimating the power of chemical peels and only use them as recommended and as often as recommended.

Finally, if you have any doubts about the use of chemical peels, do not hesitate to contact us for personalized advice. We will be happy to guide you in choosing the most suitable chemical peels for your skin type and your concerns.

By taking care of your skin with the right chemical peels, you will quickly achieve smoother, brighter and younger-looking skin!