“Should I get a peel?” is one of the most common questions at the clinic. The honest answer is: it depends which peel, and for what. In her patient-education videos, Dr Mitali walks through the peels she uses and what each one is for — because a peel that helps oily, acne-prone skin is not the same one that helps tanning or fine lines.
What a chemical peel does
A chemical peel is a solution applied to the skin in the clinic to exfoliate it in a controlled way. Depending on the peel, this can reduce oiliness, unclog pores, lift tanning and superficial pigmentation, and smooth texture.
Peels and the concerns they suit
- Salicylic peel — mainly reduces sebum and oil. It is useful in controlling acne of many types, from blackheads and whiteheads to inflamed acne, and helps smooth skin texture.
- Glycolic peel — used for fine lines, sun damage, blackheads and clogged pores, for smoother, brighter-looking skin.
- Lactic peel — helps reduce pigmentation and superficial blemishes such as tanning, as well as age spots and fine lines.
- TCA peel (also called the “blue peel”) — mainly used for selected thickened (hyperkeratotic) skin lesions, such as some forms of amyloidosis.
- Black peel — used for acne-prone skin.
- Retinol (“yellow”), ferulic, arginine and pumpkin peels — used for uneven tone, dullness, hydration and early signs of ageing.
Why your skin is examined first
The right peel depends on your skin type, your concern, the products you already use and your sun exposure. Active infection, broken skin, recent waxing, certain medicines and pregnancy can all change what is safe. That is why the choice is made at your consultation, not from a menu.
What to expect
Most peels are quick in-clinic sessions. A little tingling during the peel and some redness, dryness or light flaking for a few days afterwards are common. Peels are usually planned as a series a few weeks apart, and daily sunscreen is essential — especially for pigmentation.
Planning for an event?
Start weeks ahead rather than days. A peel just before a wedding or function leaves no time for your skin to settle.
This article is general information, not medical advice. Please consult a dermatologist about your own skin or hair.
