Chemical peels come in different strengths and formulas, each targeting specific skin issues. Here’s a rundown of the types you might encounter:
Superficial Peels
Superficial peels are the mildest type, perfect for addressing minor skin issues such as sun damage, dullness, and early signs of aging. These peels typically use alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) and require little to no downtime.
Medium Peels
For more noticeable concerns like acne scars or pigmentation, medium peels are more effective. These peels penetrate deeper into the skin layers and use trichloroacetic acid (TCA) or glycolic acid to improve texture and tone. Expect about 7 to 10 days of recovery.
Deep Peels
Deep peels are the strongest type, designed to treat severe skin damage, deep wrinkles, and even precancerous growths. Using potent chemicals like phenol, deep peels require significant downtime but offer long-lasting results.