How does chemical peel work?

The solution may contain acids such as glycolic acid or trichloroacetic acid. Its strength, contact time and formulation determine how deeply it acts. A superficial peel mainly affects the outer layer; a deeper treatment reaches further into the skin and needs more recovery. The treated area may feel warm, tight or sting briefly, followed by dryness, flaking or peeling. As the surface renews, dull skin, dark patches and uneven tone may look less noticeable, although results vary with the cause and your skin type.

A peel does not scrub away every mark in one visit. A clinician first checks whether pigmentation, irritation, active infection or another condition needs different care. Skin exposed to sun or prone to post-inflammatory darkening may need a cautious plan.

Tell the clinician about medicines, recent sun exposure, cold sores, eczema, allergies and any products that make your skin sensitive. Follow the preparation plan and do not apply unapproved exfoliants before treatment. Afterwards, use the recommended gentle cleanser, moisturiser and broad-spectrum sunscreen, and let peeling skin shed on its own. Avoid picking, waxing, harsh scrubs and strong active ingredients until the skin barrier has recovered. Follow-up helps determine whether another session or an alternative such as microdermabrasion or laser skin resurfacing is appropriate.

Contact the treating clinic if pain is worsening rather than settling, swelling is marked, blisters spread, the area becomes increasingly red or warm, or discharge develops. Seek prompt medical care for breathing difficulty, facial swelling or eye involvement. Darkening or lightening can occur after inflammation; report a persistent or changing colour so the clinician can assess it.

Which peel and depth fit my concern? What preparation should I stop or continue? How should I protect my skin while it flakes, and what signs would mean I need an examination?