With the natural ageing process and exposure to sunlight and pollutants, skin gets dull and tends to lose its glowing texture with the passage of time. Chemical peeling is a solution provided by dermatologists and plastic surgeons to regenerate dead skin cells with the aid of facial masks. It helps to improve the smoothness and texture of the skin.

Chemical peeling is a process by which a controlled injury is applied on the skin by a solution/ topical applicant. This helps remove dead cells and promotes the growth of new cells as a healing process. The dead skin gets gradually peeled off in this process. Chemical peeling of some types can be purchased over the counter and used directly. However, it is recommended to avail the services of professional dermatologists for the process to attain maximum benefits.

1. Are there any risks associated with chemical peeling?

DIY home peels can pose health risks like scarring or blistering of the skin. Professionally conducted chemical peels are a safer option, as trained and experienced doctors perform them. However complications like photosensitivity, pigmentary changes, and texture changes of the skin could arise.

2. Is any anesthesia required for chemical peeling?

This depends on the type of peel being performed on the patient. Light chemical peels like alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) peel and beta hydroxy acid (BHA) peel does not need any painkillers or anesthetics. Medium and strong peels could require the usage of anesthetics to prevent discomfort for the patient.

3. What are the side effects of chemical peeling?

Certain side effects are temporary like redness, swelling of the skin, dryness or stinging sensation. Chemical peels can have more serious side effects like permanent scarring, darkening of the skin, and damage to the heart, liver and kidneys. Sometimes, peels can also cause bacterial and fungal infections.

4. Which skin conditions do chemical peeling help improve?

Conditions like acne scars, sun damage, wrinkles, age lines, melasma, hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone can be improved with the administration of chemical peels on the skin. The chemical solutions gently exfoliate the affected skin, and help in further regeneration of new skin cells.

5. What are the kinds of chemical peels available?

Superficial or light peels help to penetrate the outermost layer of the skin and exfoliate it gently. Medium peels use glycolic and trichloroacetic acids to reach the outer and middle layers of the skin. Deep peels reach the innermost layer of the skin and remove dead and damaged cells from within. Deep peels use phenol acids.