When it comes to high-end skincare, there's a plethora of procedures that can fit into the treatment category. Whether you're struggling with acne, pigmentation issues, or just want softer and brighter skin with fewer lines and wrinkles, chemical peels provide a science-backed solution that has stood the test of time. Here at Pinkal Health, we're big on knowledge, which is why we want to get into the nitty-gritty of what chemical peels are, how they work and why they could be the best thing your skin has seen yet.
A chemical peel is a skincare treatment performed by professionals where an acid is applied to the skin to remove the outer layers. This activity leads the skin to naturally heal itself, which in turn yields the growth of new, radiant, smooth, more even-toned, and youthful skin.
Peels are offered at different intensities and are very customisable, which means there's one out there for your specific skin concerns, from even mild dullness to deeper lines and scars. They can be done on the face, neck, backs of the hands, or other body parts.
A controlled injury is then created by applying a chemical solution to the skin. This “injury” may sound ugly, but it's exactly that that triggers your skin's natural rejuvenation:
Exfoliation: The chemical formula dissolves the bonds between building blocks, called corneocytes, that hold dead skin cells (which are the outermost layers) together.
Stimulated: As the top layer sheds, the body's repair response is stimulated, which promotes an increase in collagen production and cell turnover.
Rebirth: New, healthier skin that has a better structure and condition grows to replace the old skin.
Chemical peels are classified by their depth of penetration and the strength of the acids used:
Type | Depth | Common Acids Used | Skin Concerns Treated | Downtime |
Superficial Peel | Epidermis | Glycolic, Lactic, Salicylic | Mild pigmentation, dullness, acne, texture | Minimal |
Medium Peel | Papillary Dermis | TCA, Glycolic (higher %) | Moderate wrinkles, pigmentation, acne scars | 5–7 days |
Deep Peel | Reticular Dermis | Phenol, TCA (high %) | Deep wrinkles, severe sun damage, scars | 2–3 weeks |
Superficial peels are gentle and great for regular skin maintenance and mild concerns.
Medium peels target deeper imperfections and require more recovery time.
Deep peels deliver dramatic results but are reserved for severe skin issues and need medical supervision.
Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs): The name for a group of naturally occurring acids that dissolve the glue that holds skin cells together, water-soluble acids, much like glycolic and lactic acid, that work on the surface of the skin and are commonly used for brightening the skin and smoothing it.
Betahydroxy Acids (BHAs):Oil-soluble acids like salicylic acid that penetrate pores, making them excellent for acne-prone skin.
Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA): Used in medium and deep peels for treating wrinkles, pigmentation, and scars.
Phenol: A powerful acid that is in deep peels for deep wrinkles and scarring.
With the exfoliation of the dull, dead surface skin, the doctor uncovers fresh and healthy skin below. Effect: Exfoliates & softens fine lines & rough patches, leaving skin looking revitalised & youthful.
By improving discolouration, sun spots, melasma and dullness, chemical peels are a great option. Peels work by exfoliating pigmented skin cells and stimulating new cell growth to create a more balanced, radiant skin tone.
BHAs such as salicylic acid in peels can help to unplug pores, limit oil production and, therefore, inflammation, and are therefore great for active acne. Facials that are medium-depth can also reduce acne scars by encouraging new collagen growth and resurfacing skin.
Medium and deep chemical peels give collagen stimulation, which can firm the skin and reduce the fine lines and wrinkles. The end effect is skin that not only looks younger, but feels firmer and more bouncy.
The resulting smooth skin surface shows less dirt and oil, and pores appear less noticeable.
By exfoliating dead skin cells, chemical peels enable your skin care products to be better absorbed and the results improved.
Consultation: Your skin will be evaluated by your provider, we will talk about the look you want, and the best peel for your skin will be chosen.
Preparation: Skin is cleansed, and sensitive areas are shielded.
Application: The chemical solution is brushed on and left on the skin for a certain amount of time, until the required peel depth is achieved.
Neutralise: Neutralise and rinse solution and use a calming after-care product.
Superficial peels: Minimal redness and peeling that can last several days.
Medium peels: Redness, swelling and peeling for a week.
Deep peels: Significant redness, swelling, peeling for weeks and a stringent aftercare.
You must adhere to the aftercare instructions your provider gives you, including using sun protection and quality skincare, to get the best healing and results.
It is generally safe and effective for most skin types when done by a skilled professional. However, there are risks, such as changes in pigmentation, infection, or scarring, particularly with deeper peels or inadequate post-treatment attention. Before you receive your treatment, you must have a comprehensive consultation and a skin analysis to reduce risks and design the treatment based on your needs.
Who is suitable for chemical peels? Chemical peels are ideal for anyone wishing to target:
Dull, uneven skin tone
Fine lines and wrinkles
Sun damage and pigmentation
Acne and acne scars
Enlarged pores
Rough skin texture
Contraindications: Individuals who have active disease, certain skin conditions or are known to form keloids would not be considered ideal candidates. Be sure to speak with a skin expert to understand if a chemical peel is right for you.
Here at Pinkal Health, we are guided by a personal concierge approach to beautiful, youthful skin. Our professional providers evaluate your skin type, concerns and goals to suggest the best chemical peel for your skin. Whether you're seeking a light glow-up or a more serious correction, we have several peels to customise the results that best fit your needs.
A: Superficial peels can be performed every 2-4 weeks, while medium-depth and deep peels are done less often to provide time for complete healing.
A: The peel is dependent on the depth of the peel you do. There will generally be little flaking or peeling with a lighter peel, and more flaking/peeling with deeper peels and downtime.
A: Yes! Chemical peels are a form of overall skin care and can be done in conjunction with other services such as microneedling, lasers, or facials for improved outcomes.
Chemical peels are scientifically proven to revitalise your skin to help address a range of concerns, giving you a smoother, brighter and more youthful appearance. From mild lunchtime peels to deep resurfacing treatments, there's a chemical peel for practically every skin type and goal out there.
Are you ready to see first-hand the magical effects of chemical peels? Schedule your consultation with Pinkal Health today to begin your journey to youthful, glowing skin.