What is a Facial Peel?
Peels are very popular treatment options, with the advantage of having a long history of effectiveness and safety compared to other abrasion methods used more recently.
Facial peeling consists of the application of various acidic or alkaline compounds that aim to induce controlled skin damage in order to obtain the best possible results.
The aim of this treatment is to cause controlled peeling of the skin, regenerating it and restoring a more youthful and healthy appearance.
Advantages of Chemical Peeling
In addition to promoting superficial skin regeneration, peels also activate the production of collagen and elastin.
Substances applied to the face:
- They accelerate the cell renewal process;
- Reduce seborrhea;
- Normalize pigmentation;
- Attenuate marks and scars;
- Minimize facial wrinkles.
Skin gains a new glow, eliminates irregularities, and appears more youthful. The complexion takes on a silky appearance.
Types of Peels
According to the level of penetration or inflammation, we classify peels into three types:
- Superficial;
- Medium;
- Deep.
We perform superficial treatments with the aim of giving greater luminosity to the skin, improving enlarged pores, reducing and regulating sebum secretion in acne-prone skin and improving the effectiveness of other cosmetic treatments.
Medium and deep treatments are used to treat dyschromia (skin spots caused by the sun, pregnancy and medication), as well as in certain treatment protocols for skin aging, wrinkles and acne scars.
Facial Peeling Treatment
Indications
In addition to cell renewal, there are certain situations in which this treatment is particularly indicated, namely:
- Skin rejuvenation;
- Seborrhea control;
- Acne or acne scars;
- Pigment spots (melasma, lentigines).
Contraindications
Treatment is not recommended for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
There are also other contraindications, such as: eczema, active herpes and known hypersensitivity to the substances used.
Procedure
Depending on your objective and the changes in your skin, your dermatologist will advise you on the most suitable type of peel for your case.
The appropriate chemical substance is applied to the face by your Dermatologist, using a compress or a brush.
- 30 minutes (depends on skin condition and tolerability)
- In the office and without anesthesia
- May occur 2 to 4 days after slight scaling and erythema that resolves in about 1 week.
Post-treatment
After treatment, the skin becomes more sensitive. You should avoid direct sun exposure and always use sunscreen.
It is important to follow your dermatologist's recommendations and use the suggested products.
In most cases, you can resume your normal life the same day.
Medical Specialist
in Facial Peeling
Dr. Ana Isabel Moreira
- Aesthetic Dermatologist
- Graduated from the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Porto
- Specialist in Dermatology and Venereology
- Reviewer of scientific articles at the invitation of international journals
- Member of the Portuguese Society of Aesthetic Medicine (SPME)
English (UK)