During my review of non-invasive dermatological procedures, Peel treatment stood out as a versatile option for addressing several common skin concerns, including pigmentation, acne scars, uneven skin tone, dullness, fine lines and rough texture. Chemical peels work by applying a carefully selected chemical solution to the skin to exfoliate damaged or dead surface cells and encourage the appearance of fresher skin. The depth and formulation of a peel are selected according to the patient’s skin type, concern and treatment goals. At Ambrosia Aesthetics, Dr. Niketa Sonavane offers different peeling approaches as part of personalised cosmetic dermatology care.
A chemical peel is a dermatological procedure in which a chemical solution is applied to the skin for controlled exfoliation. Depending on the formulation and concentration, the treatment can act on the superficial, medium or deeper layers of the skin.
The purpose is not simply to remove dead cells. Controlled exfoliation can help improve skin texture, pigmentation and the appearance of certain scars and fine lines while supporting the skin-renewal process.
The type of acid or combination used is important. Commonly used peeling agents include glycolic acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid and trichloroacetic acid (TCA). More intensive formulations, such as phenol-based peels, require greater medical supervision and longer recovery.
The appropriate Peel treatment depends on the depth of the skin concern and the patient’s individual skin characteristics. Chemical peels can broadly be classified as superficial, medium-depth and deep peels.
Superficial peels act mainly on the outermost layers of the skin and generally involve less downtime. Glycolic and lactic acid peels may be considered for dullness, mild pigmentation, uneven texture and overall skin rejuvenation.
Lactic acid is considered a relatively gentle peeling option, while glycolic acid can provide more intensive exfoliation.
Salicylic acid peels may be useful for acne-prone or oily skin because salicylic acid is oil-soluble and can help exfoliate within pores.
Medium-depth peels penetrate further and may be selected for concerns such as more pronounced pigmentation, acne scars and fine lines.
TCA peels are among the commonly used medium-depth options. Cosmelan is another approach used for stubborn pigmentation and melasma, with post-treatment home care forming part of the treatment protocol in appropriate cases.
Deep peels penetrate substantially further into the skin and are used for selected severe concerns, such as significant sun damage, deep wrinkles and certain scars.
Phenol peels are examples of deep chemical peels and require strict medical supervision because they can involve more significant recovery and potential complications.
One reason chemical peeling remains popular in cosmetic dermatology is its versatility. Depending on the formulation, a peel may be used to address: