There are different types of chemical peels, which are distinguished based on their effect on the layers of the skin.

Superficial chemical peels are also known as weekend peels due to their minimal recovery time. They are performed with fruit acids (hydroxy acids or AHAs). These solutions affect only the outer layers of the skin, causing mild exfoliation that refreshes the skin and improves the appearance of mild discoloration and fine wrinkles.

Intermediate-depth chemical peels, performed with glycolic acid and trichloroacetic acid (TCA), affect the outer and middle layers of the skin. The treatment helps treat skin blemishes, fine lines and wrinkles, and is also used to treat some precancerous skin conditions such as actinic hyperkeratosis.

Deep chemical peels are performed with concentrated solutions of trichloroacetic acid (TCA) and phenol and affect the middle and deeper layers of the skin. The treatment helps improve moderate to deep wrinkles, blemishes, superficial scars and areas of skin with intense photoaging.

Recovery time and possible side effects

The deeper the chemical peel, the more intense its effects, but also the longer the recovery time and the occurrence of adverse effects.