Medical peel
Professional peels performed by experienced aesthetic medicine doctors can penetrate much deeper into the skin and tissue layers than over-the-counter at-home peel products, depending on the type of peel. This results in more effective and long-lasting results. Medical peels typically ensure that the skin layer peels off in a controlled manner, revealing new, fresher skin. At the same time, they stimulate processes that lead to collagen formation, resulting in a harmonious tightening effect.
Quick facts
Type of treatment: minimally invasive
Treatment duration: 30–45 minutes
Anesthesia: local anesthesia, twilight sedation (deep peels)
Downtime: none to about 1 week
Results: immediate to several weeks after treatment, depending on the type of peel
Duration of effect: several months to years (depending on the type of peel)
Special features: various peel strengths, natural skin renewal, sun protection
Risks: redness, swelling, irritation, sensitivity, burning, itching, dry skin, scabbing
Cost: starting at € 199
What types of peels are there?
Generally, there are two types of cosmetic peels. In mechanical peels, coarser crystals such as salts or sand are mixed into the lotions to help scrub away dead skin cells from the upper layer of the skin. Sometimes special brushes or other instruments are also used for this purpose. In a chemical peel, on the other hand, acidic substances cause the skin to peel off. These peels are therefore not only focused on the upper layer of skin but can also penetrate deeper tissue layers. The depth of the peel depends on the peeling substance used and its strength or concentration.
What are the different peel depths?
- Superficial peels (e.g., fruit acid peel/AHA peel, TCA peel)
- Medium-depth peels (e.g., TCA peel)
- Deep peels (e.g., phenol peel)
Who are chemical peels suitable for?
Chemical peels are suitable for people whose skin is affected by pigmentation spots, scars, or sun damage. Even fine lines and a dull complexion can be reduced or corrected with a peel. Deeper peels are also capable of treating deep wrinkles, severe scars, and skin with significant sun damage. This treatment method is therefore suitable for both younger patients seeking gentle support and care for their skin, as well as older individuals who already exhibit mild to severe signs of aging. A customized treatment plan is developed for each patient.
Which areas can be treated with a peel?
- Face
- Neck
- Deckolleté
- Arms
- Legs
- Abdomen
- Back
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What can peels achieve?
- Reduction of mild, moderate, and deep wrinkles
- Improvement of skin texture
- Fresh and healthy complexion, “glow effect”
- Reduction of pigmentation disorders
- Skin rejuvenation
- Skin tightening
- Cleansing and refining of pores
- Reduction of acne
- Scar correction
- Reduction of stretch marks (striae)
Fruit acid peel
In medical cosmetics, glycolic acid (alpha-hydroxy acid; AHA for short) is primarily used for fruit acid peels. The substance is relatively mild and is found, for example, in sugarcane juice. At the start of the peel, the skin areas are thoroughly cleansed of makeup and similar products. The doctor then applies the fruit acid serum in gel form to the skin and allows it to take effect. The application time may vary depending on the exact composition and the desired result. After the application time, the serum is neutralized with a cream. In some treatments, the steps are repeated to achieve the desired effect. Additional anesthesia is generally not necessary.
A fruit acid peel can be used to treat dry skin prone to flaking, a dull complexion, mild pigmentation issues, sun damage, and fine scars.
Medium-depth peel
Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) is usually used for medium-depth peels. This peel can smooth out fine lines (e.g., around the mouth and eyes) and treat sun-damaged skin. It is primarily used on the face, but can also be applied to the arms, neck, décolleté, and hands. After thoroughly cleansing and degreasing the area, the trichloroacetic acid is applied. The application time is approximately 30 minutes. After the application time, the gel is washed off with water. For light TCA peels, no additional anesthesia is necessary; medium-depth peels are generally performed under local anesthesia.
Phenol peel
The phenol peel is the procedure that penetrates deepest into the tissue and thus produces the strongest effect. It is performed exclusively on the face and either under local anesthesia or under twilight sedation. With the help of a phenol peel, even severe scars and deep wrinkles can be reduced. Extreme sun damage to the skin can also be treated with this method. After thoroughly cleansing the skin, the phenol solution is applied to the treatment areas. The experienced physician then covers the areas with a plaster bandage, which should be worn for about 24 hours. After this time, an antiseptic powder is applied to the skin. This forms a firm scab that remains on the face for about a week. The treatment takes about 45 minutes.
Questions and Answers
Aftercare measures depend on the type and intensity of the peel. After superficial peels, patients experience minimal restrictions in their daily lives. They should simply ensure they use appropriate sun protection, as the treated areas are very sensitive. For medium-depth and deep peels, however, the healing process takes two to three weeks. It is essential to protect the treated areas from direct sunlight to prevent hyperpigmentation and skin damage. The scab that forms after the peel must not be picked at. Applying an antiseptic ointment protects the area from bacterial infections.
After superficial peels, the first results are visible immediately following the treatment. The skin looks cleansed and fresh. As cell renewal and regeneration continue, the results also become more pronounced. With deeper peels, it takes some time for the results to become apparent. The first results are visible after the healing process. With these procedures as well, the effects intensify within a few weeks. The newly formed skin is initially slightly reddened.
The duration of a chemical peel’s effects varies depending on the intensity and strength of the peeling process. Superficial peels usually last a few months. With deep peels, the positive results can even last for several years. Regular touch-ups are recommended if patients desire a lasting effect.
In Germany, the so-called Medicines Act applies, which legally prohibits the publication of before-and-after photos of peel treatments. Therefore, unfortunately, no files can be provided on this page. However, during a personal consultation, interested patients have the opportunity to view anonymized before-and-after photos of peeling treatments.
Especially during the first few treatments with highly concentrated peeling solutions, the skin may become irritated and reddened. Additionally, the treated areas are often very sensitive or tender to the touch. Mild burning, itching, dry skin, flaking, or scabbing are also normal skin reactions. These symptoms usually subside on their own. Very rarely, however, peels can cause pain, weeping wounds, pigmentation disorders, impaired wound healing, or scarring.
Chemical peels should not be performed in the presence of certain medical conditions or factors. Prior to the procedure, a detailed consultation and examination by an experienced physician takes place to rule out any potential contraindications. Contraindications include, among others:
- Minors
- Acute inflammation or injuries in the treatment area
- Viral infections (e.g., herpes)
- Eczema
- Allergies
- Irritated or damaged skin
- Tendency toward excessive scarring
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding
The cost of a medical peel depends on the type and strength of the peel, as well as the size of the treatment area. Since the treatment is tailored to each individual patient, the price range may vary. During the personal consultation, the experienced aesthetic medicine specialist will provide detailed information about the costs associated with the peel in your specific case.