Peel Basics
This is the primary purpose of a chemical peel.
What is to exfoliate the skin and improve texture or tone?
This AHA is derived from sugar cane and often used in superficial peels.
What is glycolic acid?
Patients are often advised to stop using this topical 3–5 days before a peel.
What is retinoid (or tretinoin)?
Peeling, redness, and this sensation are normal immediately post-peel.
What is stinging or burning?
This strength of peel is often called a "lunchtime peel" due to minimal downtime.
What is a light or superficial peel?
Chemical peels work by breaking down these connections between skin cells.
What are desmosomes or cellular bonds?
Salicylic acid belongs to this acid family and is best for acneic skin.
What is beta hydroxy acid (BHA)?
A gentle cleanser and this type of skincare product are usually recommended for prepping the skin.
What is a non-irritating moisturizer or hydrating serum?
Patients must wear this daily after a chemical peel.
What is sunscreen?
Medium-depth peels typically reach this layer of the dermis.
What is the papillary dermis?
Chemical peels are classified by this characteristic related to skin depth.
What is the depth of penetration (light, medium, deep)?
This acid has both antimicrobial and keratolytic properties, making it ideal for oily skin.
What is salicylic acid?
Patients with darker skin tones may be prescribed this pre-treatment to reduce PIH risk.
What is hydroquinone or a skin-lightening agent?
After a peel, it’s important to avoid this common activity that generates heat.
What is exercise, sauna use, or hot showers?
This acid is commonly used in medium-depth peels at 35–50% concentrations.
What is trichloroacetic acid (TCA)?
The ideal candidate for a superficial chemical peel has this Fitzpatrick skin type.
What is type I–III?
This acid, derived from sour milk, is known for being gentle and hydrating
What is lactic acid?
This Fitzpatrick skin type scale helps determine skin’s reaction to sun and peel suitability.
What is the Fitzpatrick Skin Type scale (I–VI)?
This risk is higher in patients with a history of cold sores.
What is herpes simplex virus (HSV) reactivation?
Deep peels can improve these two signs of aging
What are deep wrinkles and skin laxity?
This is a common reason patients are advised to delay a chemical peel.
What is active skin infection, sunburn, or open wound?
This powerful acid is commonly used in deep peels and requires monitoring for cardiac toxicity.
What is phenol?
Patients on this medication must discontinue it for 6–12 months prior to a peel.
What is isotretinoin (Accutane)?
Picking or peeling flaking skin too early can lead to this long-term issue.
What is scarring or hyperpigmentation?
This level of peel requires pretreatment and sometimes sedation due to its intensity.
What is a deep chemical peel?