It’s important that the skin is healthy and not overly compromised before any level of superficial chemical peel. Limiting sun exposure for two weeks before a light chemical peel and discontinuing the use of any retinoids or exfoliating acids 2-5 days prior to a superficial chemical peel will aid the skin in recovery and limit the occurrence of abnormal reaction to the light chemical peel.

There is generally a level of tingling or a light burning sensation with a superficial chemical peel, although for most patients the discomfort of a light peel facial is tolerable and does not require any additional pain management beyond the use of a cooling fan and/or cool compress. The sensations during a light chemical peel will differ depending upon the superficial peel used, the application method and the state of the skin. For example, glycolic and lactic acid peels generally feel itchy or stingy whereas a TCA or Jessner’s peel may feel increasingly hot as more layers are performed. Discomfort is entirely subjective, however, and a patient concerned about the potential pain during a light chemical peel should consult with their trusted skincare professional for recommendations to manage it effectively.

Although both skin cells and hair contain keratin, a chemical peel such as a light chemical peel or a superficial chemical peel works by dissolving the bonds between the skin cells and does not affect hair, which has a very different chemical composition. However, a frequent combination skin service includes dermaplaning to safely remove vellus hair followed by a light chemical peel. Interestingly, depilatory creams that are applied to the skin and gently dissolve the hair shaft require a very alkaline state, as opposed to a superficial chemical peel which is acidic. The physician or peel provider should advise on the timing and use of a depilatory cream in the week(s) before or

A superficial chemical peel may come in many different strengths and represent a broad range of activity in the skin. For a true superficial chemical peel reaching a depth of up to .06mm in the epidermis, every 4-6 weeks may be sufficient for a repeated light peel facial. The use of a chemical exfoliant during a skincare service is quite popular and it may be referred to as a light chemical peel, whether or not it reaches the minimum depth requirement of .004mm in the stratum corneum for a true superficial chemical peel. This type of very light chemical peel may be safely performed on a weekly basis. The availability of a broad range of superficial peels makes it ever more important to consult with an experienced skincare professional when deciding which light chemical peel to choose and how often to repeat the procedure.