CHEMICAL PEELING TREATMENT

Back in the 90s, a universal aesthetic methodology aroused considerable interest in the field of Dermatology: peeling. An acid chemical solution was applied with a gauze or with a brush to the skin surface, for a few minutes, and used to remove superficial layers of the epidermis. The result was remarkable after just a few sessions: smoothness, brightness, micronisation of the pores, reduction of the seborrhoeic component in the skin. This practice had several advantages, such as ease of implementation for experienced specialists with no side effects, and without any anaesthesia required for the less invasive peeling applications. Its great success was determined by the growing need of patients to improve, extremely quickly, their appearance, with the possibility to resume their daily tasks without any problem. The most manageable and effective molecules in this regard were glycolic acid, then Pyruvic acid, Mandelic acid, Salicylic, TCL etc.

It is vital that the practitioner has good knowledge of the skin, and in-depth expertise in the biological and chemical properties of our cells. There are guidelines that medical practitioners must follow but, above all, they must shy away from the promises of miraculous results proposed by newbies without any form of degree or specialisation, who promote simple and hasty practices, with no mention of the origin of the substance to be used, and no information on the possible side effects that may occur.

Above all, it is important that the outpatients area conducting such practices, is adequately equipped in accordance with hygiene, health and preventive standards and regulations. Only too often we hear of harmful caustic effects, ones that actually burn the skin, caused by the inexpert use of chemical solutions for medical use only, whose aggressiveness is only generated by the lack of professionalism of the operator and the provision of such services in appalling facilities with poor hygiene levels.

It is also a peeling that has no contraindications, except in recurrent herpes, in connective tissue diseases and allergic and irritant dermatitis, a contraindication which must be taken into account for all peeling applications in general. Peeling treatments as an action mechanism are now effective and safe, especially the more superficial and less invasive peels which have minimal side effects, and offer a wide range of application. Although the introduction of the laser has drastically limited the use of peeling, it is still considered as an additional tool available to dermatologists who use it to treat facial imperfections.