Skin peelings, overview types and for which skin types suitable!

One of the best ways to renew your skin and get a fresh, radiant complexion is through skin peelings. These treatments come in many shapes and sizes and can help improve texture, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and reduce hyperpigmentation and acne. But how do you know which skin peeling best suits your skin type? In this article we take you through the different types of peels and which ones are best for your skin type.

What are skin peelings?

A skin peel is a cosmetic treatment often performed by dermatologists, skin therapists, beauticians and other trained professionals. During treatment, a chemical solution is applied to the skin, which usually consists of a combination of acids such as glycolic acid, salicylic acid, lactic acid, or trichloroacetic acid (TCA). These acids act as exfoliants, removing the top layer of skin cells, revealing smoother, healthier skin.

The type of acid used, the concentration and the duration of the treatment depend on the skin type and specific needs of the patient. For example, glycolic acid has the smallest molecular structure of all alpha hydroxy acids and is able to penetrate deeper into the skin, while salicylic acid is better suited for treating acne due to its anti-inflammatory properties.

Skin peels are commonly used to treat a wide variety of skin conditions, such as acne, fine lines and wrinkles, pigmentation problems, sun damage and scars. After treatment, the skin may be slightly red and sensitive, but these side effects usually disappear within a few days. The result is fresher, smoother and younger-looking skin.

There are three types of skin peels: superficial, medium and deep.

Superficial peelings

Superficial skin peels are the least aggressive form of chemical peels and are therefore a great option for people new to skin peels. They usually contain alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), which help remove dead skin cells and improve the texture of the skin. In addition to reducing fine lines and wrinkles, superficial peels can also help fade pigmentation and reduce the size of pores. They are suitable for all skin types, even those with sensitive skin, as they are less intense than deeper peels.

Very superficial peels 10 to 20% TCA, low potency glycolic and salicylic acids, and tretinoic acid. Light peels: 20 to 30% TCA, Jessner solution and 40 to 70% glycolic acid

Medium peelings

Medium skin peels are a step up from superficial peels and are designed to give more pronounced results. Unlike superficial peels, medium peels are usually made of trichloroacetic acid (TCA) and can achieve deeper skin penetration. This makes it possible to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, treat hyperpigmentation and improve the texture of the skin. Medium peels are generally suitable for most skin types, but not recommended for those with sensitive skin due to the risk of skin irritation. It is important to remember that medium peels may have a slightly longer recovery time than superficial peels, as the skin may flake slightly and be more sensitive after the treatment.

Medium peels: combinations of 35% TCA with Jessner’s solution or 70% glycolic acid

Deep peelings

Deep skin peels are the most intensive form of chemical peels and are generally used to treat serious skin problems such as deep wrinkles, sun damage and serious pigmentation problems. Phenol peels are the most aggressive form of peels and are made from phenol. These peels are generally only performed by dermatologists and plastic surgeons.

Deep peels are more powerful than superficial and medium peels and are made from solutions such as greater than 50% TCA, or combinations of croton oil and phenol. While they can be effective for treating serious skin problems, they are not suitable for all skin types. This is because the harsh nature of phenol peels can destroy the pigment in the skin, causing white patches to form. Therefore, phenol peels are usually recommended for lighter skinned people and not recommended for darker skinned people.

It is also important to note that phenol peels are not suitable for people with sensitive skin or those who have recently undergone certain types of skin treatments, such as laser or microdermabrasion. It is therefore essential to consult with a specialist which type of peeling best suits your skin and what risks are involved.

Which skin peels best suit your skin type?

Now that you know which types of skin peels there are, it is important to know which one suits your skin type best. Below you will find an overview of the different skin types and which peels are best for each type.

Dry skin

With dry skin, it is important to opt for a mild peeling that does not dry out the skin further. A peel with low concentration lactic acid or glycolic acid may be suitable for dry skin, as these acids exfoliate the skin without irritating or drying it out. However, it is important to always be careful and start with a low concentration and short exposure time to avoid irritating the skin. It is also recommended to use a moisturizing product after peeling to hydrate and soothe the skin. More about dry skin

Oily skin

A medium peel with TCA (trichloroacetic acid) can help treat oily skin. TCA is a stronger acid than, for example, glycolic acid or salicylic acid, and penetrates deeper into the skin. It can help reduce excess oil production by reducing the sebaceous glands and can also help improve skin texture by removing dead skin cells and stimulating the production of new collagen.

It is important to know that a medium peel with TCA is not suitable for all skin types. It may be too strong for dry or sensitive skin and may lead to irritation or excessive dryness.

Sensitive skin

People with sensitive skin often have skin that reacts sensitively to external influences, such as certain ingredients in cosmetics or exposure to the sun. The use of peels can also lead to skin irritation if not handled with care. Therefore, it is recommended that people with sensitive skin only use superficial peels made from low concentrated and mild AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) or BHAs (beta hydroxy acids) as these ingredients are less irritating than some of the other ingredients used in deeper peels. used.

It is also important to slowly accustom sensitive skin to peels to avoid irritation. This means that the frequency and strength of the peels must be built up gradually. For example, by starting with a lower concentration of AHAs or BHAs and slowly increasing it as the skin gets used to it. It is also important to remember that overuse of peels can damage the skin, so it is important to follow the instructions carefully and not to exfoliate too often or too strongly.

Acne-prone skin

Acne occurs as a result of excessive sebum production, inflammation and clogging of the skin pores. A peel with TCA or salicylic acid can help address these issues and reduce acne. TCA (trichloroacetic acid) is a chemical peel that removes the outer layer of the skin and promotes the production of collagen and elastin. This can help reduce acne and improve skin texture.

Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that helps exfoliate the skin and reduce inflammation, both of which are important in fighting acne. However, it is important to note that, as with all peels, the treatments should be performed gently and the skin gradually accustomed to the peel to avoid irritation. More about acne

Dark skin

People with darker skin tend to have a higher concentration of melanin in their skin, which can lead to hyperpigmentation (dark spots) in response to skin irritation or inflammation. However, deep peels, such as TCA peels, can irritate and inflame the skin too much, increasing the risk of hyperpigmentation. Therefore, superficial peels are recommended for people with dark skin, as they gently exfoliate the top layer of the skin without increasing the risk of pigment changes. When using peels on dark skin, it is important to proceed with caution and build up use slowly to reduce the risk of irritation and pigment changes.

Most frequently asked questions about skin peels

How do you prepare your skin for a peeling?

Preparation can reduce the risk of side effects and increase the effectiveness of the peel. This may include using specific skin care products, such as retinoids or whitening creams, and avoiding direct sun exposure prior to treatment.

Can skin peels help reduce acne?

Yes, certain chemical peels can be very effective in treating acne. They remove dead skin cells, reduce sebum production, and unclog pores, all of which can help reduce existing acne and prevent future outbreaks.

Are skin peels safe for all skin tones?

While light peels are safe for all skin tones, medium to deep peels can cause hyperpigmentation, especially on darker skin tones. It is essential to consult a skin care professional who has experience with your specific skin type.

What is the difference between a skin peel and microdermabrasion?

Skin peels use chemical solutions to remove the top layer of skin, while microdermabrasion is a physical exfoliation technique that uses microcrystals or a diamond tip to mechanically remove dead skin cells.

How long does it take to see results after a skin peel?

The time to see results varies depending on the type of peel and the condition of the skin. Some people notice improvements immediately after recovery, while others require multiple treatments to achieve the desired effect.

In other words:

Exfoliation can be an effective way to restore radiance and rejuvenation to your skin. It is important to know which type of peeling best suits your skin type to achieve the desired results and prevent irritation. Therefore, it is always advisable to seek advice from a dermatologist before undergoing a skin peel to ensure it is suitable for your skin and to minimize any risks.