Peels are one of the oldest methods of skin renewal, and despite the development of modern machinery and lasers, they remain a classic tool in our hands, using various acids and techniques.
Over time, our skin is affected by various factors such as pollution, sun exposure, and harmful habits (smoking, alcohol), resulting in a tired and dull appearance. The solution to such a condition is provided by peels.
The term "facial peels" refers to a process of exfoliation that renews the epidermis in a completely safe way. The superficial layers of the skin are removed in a controlled and gradual manner using special acids, without causing any injury. This improves the texture of the skin while simultaneously smoothing fine lines and wrinkles.
It is also important to note that our skin has an acidic pH between 4.7 and 5.75, and frequent use of soaps and other alkaline substances, as well as inappropriate creams, can affect the pH of the skin and, consequently, its balance. Conditions such as acne, rosacea, and eczema are related to pH imbalance. This may also be related to the fact that the disturbance of the skin's pH affects the microbiome present in it, which seems to play a crucial role in many diseases, as well as in the well-being of our skin. Therefore, peels and the use of acids seem to have an invisible long-term beneficial effect by positively influencing the types of microorganisms that inhabit our skin.
Facial peels are chosen by a Dermatologist or a fully trained Aesthetician to apply the appropriate treatment in each case. It is an ideal treatment for fine lines, acne, aging, regulation of oiliness, discoloration, and photodamage. Depending on their level of action, they are categorized as follows:
- Superficial peels: Exfoliate the surface layer of the epidermis; their action is limited to the stratum corneum.
- Medium peels: Penetrate deeper layers of the skin. Their purpose is the regeneration of a new epidermis.
- Deep peels: Reach deeper into the dermis and constitute the most powerful category of peels. Their purpose is collagen induction.
It is worth mentioning here that there are "next-generation peels" where there is no intense exfoliation, and the stimulus triggers a cellular cycle of activities that rejuvenate the appearance of the skin.
In our clinic, we offer:
- Glycolic Acid Peels of various concentrations: For anti-aging, and improvement of wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and acne scars.
- Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA) Peels of various concentrations: Higher concentrations of this acid constitute an aggressive deep peel and can cause significant skin renewal. However, they also have possible side effects such as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation in some skin types. Lower concentrations are also very effective and can be combined with other skin renewal methods such as laser, dermapen, PRP, etc.
- Salicylic Acid Peels: For acne treatment, oil regulation, and reduction of enlarged pores.
- Lactic Acid Peels: Remove dead cells and give a glow to the skin.
- PRX-T33: This is a new generation peel with TCA & Hydrogen Peroxide. It smoothens fine lines and restores lost firmness and elasticity of the skin. It is suitable for both men and women and can be combined with other treatments such as hyaluronic acid fillers, Botulinum Toxin, and Mesotherapy.
- Enzymatic Peels: Use natural enzymes (e.g., papain) and cause mild exfoliation. They are ideal for sensitive skin.
- Diamond Microdermabrasion: Although not a peel, it is a form of mechanical exfoliation that removes dead cells.
- Aqua Glo: Gentle cleansing combined with low-concentration acids that give radiance and freshness to the skin.
In our clinic, the deepest peels such as those with TCA and high concentrations of glycolic acid are exclusively medical procedures and allow us to treat acne scars, wrinkles, spots, and discolorations while also providing significant tightening. Sometimes, we combine deep peels with other methods such as fractional laser, dermapen, and mesotherapy in the same session for optimal results. These treatments can achieve impressive results even with just one session, but they require some downtime. Additionally, we use specific peels in the treatment of rosacea.