A chemical peel is a popular technique used to improve the appearance of skin, eliminating discolorations and promoting new skin growth. It involves applying a chemical solution to the top layer of the skin, which causes it to “peel” off. Peels can be used to treat acne scars, melasma, sun-damaged skin, wrinkles, and other conditions. They can also be used to lighten dark spots.
Chemical peels are classified into three categories: superficial, medium, and deep. Superficial peels are the safest and most common type, but they can still cause itching, erythema, increased skin sensitivity, epidermolysis, irritating allergic contact dermatitis, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). Medium and deep peels can cause milia, secondary infection, and scarring. Deep peels are no longer popular on Indian skin.
After a chemical peel, your skin will become dry and flaky. It's best to let this process go naturally and not peel or scratch the skin before it's ready to peel off. After three to four days, most of the peel should be complete and fresh new skin will develop. People with dark skin are at increased risk of developing PIH and should consult with their dermatologist to determine if a chemical peel is right for them.
Lesions such as solar lentigines may disappear initially and then reappear after chemical peeling. Accidental spillage of any chemical exfoliating agent into the eyes can result in eye damage in the form of corneal damage. Chemical peels are a flexible and useful tool for improving skin texture and the effects of aging. However, they are not the only option for treating dark spots and can be costly and invasive.
Some other treatments include topical lighteners and dermabrasion. Patients should be aware that dark spots may come back after a chemical peel and should take precautions such as using sunscreen to protect their skin from further damage.
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