Peeling: A technique to “renew your skin”!
A solution applied to the skin will destroy its superficial layers, removing both the epidermis and part of the dermis. This is one of the most commonly used techniques in medical aesthetics. This regenerative treatment is ideal for skin damaged by age and sun exposure. The destroyed cells will be replaced by young cells, making the skin clearer and more toned. This technique can partially slow down the skin aging process.
What results can you expect from a peel?
Peeling is designed to restore radiance to the skin, eliminate certain pigmented spots, tighten enlarged pores, and reduce fine wrinkles.
What are the different types of peels?
There are superficial, medium, and deep peels depending on the product used or its concentration. These parameters determine the depth of action and thus their suitability for specific concerns such as loss of skin elasticity, sun damage (heliodermia), wrinkles, spots, and acne scars.
Common types include:
- Alpha-hydroxy acids (“fruit acids” like lactic acid, glycolic acid);
- TCA (trichloroacetic acid), phenol;
- Laser thermal peels (known as skin resurfacing);
- Mechanical peels (dermabrasion).
How does a chemical peel work?
The peel works by burning the epidermis and potentially the upper dermis. After peeling (crusts fall off naturally within days), the skin appears pink, smooth, and visibly younger. The complexion is refreshed through skin regeneration. Different body areas (face, neck, décolletage, hands, arms) can be treated in one or multiple sessions. Improved blood circulation and new collagen/elastin fiber synthesis in the dermis are observed.
Is the treatment painful?
Some peels are painful while others aren’t; anesthesia may be unnecessary, local, or general depending on the case.
Sun protection recommendations?
For three months post-treatment, the regenerated skin must be protected with total sunblock (SPF 50+).
What about fruit acid peels?
These gentler peels primarily provide a “radiance boost” and can be repeated.
When is dermabrasion used?
This relatively imprecise and risky technique is rarely used today. A less invasive alternative exists: microdermabrasion using aluminum hydroxide crystals to remove the outermost epidermal layer and dead skin cells. It cleanses pores, with temporary redness but immediately smoother skin. Can be repeated like a facial cleaning.
Special cases:
Couperose, rosacea, spider angiomas, and brown spots are common skin imperfections. Prolonged sun exposure, temperature changes, vitamin deficiencies, or hereditary factors can cause dilated blood vessels (especially on cheeks/nose). More precise than peels, lasers excel at treating couperose (tiny blood vessels) and pigmented spots without damaging surrounding tissue. Most imperfections fade or disappear completely after one or few treatments. Temporary swelling/scabbing may occur – healing creams reduce recovery time. Some brown spots from sun exposure, aging, or heredity can be significantly lightened or removed via laser or peels after proper diagnosis. Again, small scabs may form and fall off within a week, revealing pink spots. SPF 50+ sunscreen is essential.
Is skin preparation needed?
Some peels require preliminary skin preparation.
What are the drawbacks?
Expected temporary effects include redness, itching, and skin tightness. Peeling occurs within the following week.
Are there risks?
Potential (though rare) burn-related complications: persistent redness, post-op hyperpigmentation (brownish spots), and scarring have been documented.
PHOTOS
While many websites show treatment results, displaying them is now prohibited by the Belgian Medical Association and law. Hence, we don’t feature them here. However, you’ll receive personalized information during your consultation, including photos to help assess potential outcomes.
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