What Is A Salicylic Acid Peel?
A salycilic acid peel is a type of chemical peel that exfoliates the top layers of the epidermisto improve the appearance of the skin.
The main component in this chemical peel is salicylic acid – a generally recognized antiseptic and sebum-regulating agent. Coming into contact with the epidermis, it “dissolves” dead cells, evens out the skin, and destroys bacteria that cause acne.
Depending on the depth of penetration into the skin, chemical peels can mild to moderate. The intensity of its effect depends on the percentage of salicylic acid concentration used. Salycilic acid peels are used to care for the skin of the face, neck, décolleté, arms, and back.
Indications For The Procedure
Chemical peels can be used to treat a variety of skin concerns. Therefore, indications for the procedure can be conditionally divided into the following groups:
- Skin problem: oily seborrhea, acne, comedones, folliculitis
- Dermatological diseases: seborrheic dermatitis, hyperkeratosis
- Aesthetic disadvantages: age spots and post-acne marks
- Signs of skin aging: loss of turgor, dull complexion, photoaging
Contraindications And Restrictions
It is important to consider any existing skin conditions you have before having a chemical peel. The intense exfoliating effect of salicylic acid can trigger rosacea and worsen the condition of the skin if there are existing abrasions, scratches, or sunburns. We do not recommend having a chemical peel if you are pregnant or breast feeding.
Stages Of A Salicylic Acid Chemical Peel
We advise that you stop using the sauna or swimming pool 2 weeks before the first procedure to prepare the skin for your chemical peel.
First, we cleanse your skin of makeup and impurities and apply a preparatory mask. After washing off the mask, the face is wiped with an antiseptic, and then salicylic acid solution is applied.
The concentration of salicylic acid can be vary, depending on the depth of treatment:
- 15-20% is used for superficial exfoliation when the aim is to reduce the activity of the sebaceous glands and get rid of acne
- 25-30% is used for mid-surface peeling, when it is necessary to smooth out shallow wrinkles, even out the skin, get rid of scars, and stimulate the synthesis of collagen fibers
Procedure Duration
The whole procedure lasts around 30 minutes. The salicylic acid solution is kept on the skin for no more than 10 minutes. During the chemical peel, you may feel some tingling and burning. It is important to apply a protective cream on the face after the solution is washed off to protect the skin from sun and irritation.
After Effects And Recovery
It is normal to experience redness, a feeling of dryness and tightness in the skin after a chemical peel. After a few days, your dead skill will start to peel, revealing fresher, younger-looking skin.
How Many Treatments Are Required?
The required number of procedures depends on your goals and skin texture. At deRMA Skin Institute, we recommend no more than 8 chemical peels in one series of treatments for hyperkeratosis, seborrheic dermatitis, acne, and hyperpigmentation. To care for the skin of the face and hands, we recommend at least 5 procedures.
On average, the interval between sessions is 1-2 weeks
Schedule A Consultation
If you have skin problems or want to look younger, salicylic acid peels are for you. Taking care of yourself is a great opportunity not only to look attractive but also to improve your well-being and mood! Your aesthetic appearance is our top priority at deRMA Skin Institute. Contact us at (888) 803-3762 or request a consultation online to learn more about chemical peels.
Dusan Sajic, MD, PhD
Richard Backstein, MD
Sonja Sajic, CCPA
Daniel Wong, MD, FRCPC
Tiffany Chen, MD, FRCPC, DABD
Toni Alberto, CCPA
With more than 20 years of experience, deRMA Skin Institute strive to offer patients the most advanced treatments available to keep their skin healthy and looking its best. Board Certified Dermatologist, Dusan Sajic, MD, PhD, board-certified Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon, Richard Backstein, MD, FRCSC, Sonja Sajic, CCPA, Toni Alberto CCPA, Tiffany Chen MD PRCPC and Daniel Wong MD FRCPC are committed to providing state-of-the-art medical, surgical and cosmetic treatments to all patients in Guelph, Burlington, Cambridge, Kitchener, Hamilton, Milton, and surrounding areas.