Chemical Peels and your Spa Business: Different Clients Require Different Strengths and Peel Depths

There are several types of chemical peels available for use by aestheticians.  Knowing the differences between them and assessing which chemical peel is right for various clients is a part of the professionalism that all aestheticians should strive for.  

As an overview, the chemical peel itself refers to a method of removing the outer layer of skin, getting rid of the damaged skin and allowing new skin to replace it.  Reasons for chemical peels are as varied as the types of damage done to skin.  Wrinkles, uneven skin pigmentation, minor birth marks, sun damage and acne scarring  are just a few of the reasons that clients will come to you for a chemical peel.

Reasons for a Chemical Peel

Personal reasons for wanting a chemical peel by a client include enhancement of personal appearance, increased self-confidence and a raise in self-esteem.  These are strictly cosmetic reasons but chemical peels are even used for removal of pre-cancerous skin growths, a valid medical reason.

Remember: the client will not know the difference between the varying degrees of chemical peels. It is your job to know the differences and apply the correct strength based on the client's needs.

Phenol: The Strongest Agent

Of the most common agents used in chemical peels, the strongest solution is Phenol, which produces a deep peel.  A client who has coarse facial wrinkles, or perhaps has blotchy and damaged skin caused by pre-cancerous growths or excessive sun exposure may be a good candidate for Phenol treatment.  Phenol lightens the treated areas  and is commonly used on the face.

Mid Level Peel

Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) is also an option, considered a medium or mid level peel, and it may be used in various concentrations.  Trichloracetic acid tends to not be as long-lasting as  Phenol-based peels.  For this reason, multiple peels may be required when using trichloracetic acid.  However, the recovery time is much shorter, making it very popular, especially for those clients with only minor problems to correct, or with very limited time.

Milder Agents Have Shorter Recovery Times

Alphahydroxy acids (AHA) are the mildest agents in common use. Referred to as superficial or light peels, Alphahydroxy acids provide brighter looking, smoother skin at a surface level only.  Alphahydroxy acids are varied, and include fruit acids, lactic acids and glycolic acids.  Many times Alphahydroxy acids will be mixed with facial cream or a facial wash and will become part of a send home daily skin care regimen for your client.  If a client receives a full treatment with Alphahydroxy, recovery time is less than any other peel, making it a good choice for those clients who have limited time for treatment.

Interested in learning more about chemical peels? Consider reading Peels and Peeling Agents. This book's innovative approach to teaching advanced peeling techniques and the use of peeling agents makes it easy for aestheticians, clinicians and physicians to follow proven techniques. Professionals in medical skin care facilities, day spas and resort spas will find that the case studies and specific instructions for implementing processes will give them invaluable insight into performing highly successful treatments.