Types of Chemical Peels


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All chemical peels can be classified as belonging to one of three main groupings, which differ in terms of their strength. Below are the distinguishing features between each of these groups, namely superficial peels, medium depth peels and deep peels.

Superficial Chemical Peels

Otherwise known as light peels or by their nickname ‘lunchtime peels.’ Literally a surface level skin peel, they offer quick recovery times making them ideal for those who are unable to consider gaining time off from their workplace. The chemicals contained within this peel the skin to a lesser extent than those contained within medium-depth and deep peels and as such they do not penetrate beneath the epidermal (top/surface) layers of the skin. This is the mildest available form of chemical peel. Consequentially the first time that you are treated with a superficial peel you may be disappointed by the apparent lack of results. However, as you undergo subsequent superficial peels the results will become markedly more noticeable.


This type of peel can also be administered in a home environment with the chemicals needed being regularly available on the market. Moreover some of the chemicals that are used are also present within food stuffs.

The most notable chemical peel within this category is the AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid) peel or Glycolic Peel.

Medium Depth Chemical Peels

Medium depth chemical peels have a longer recovery time than superficial peels due to the medium depth skin penetration that they offer.  The most common chemical within this category is Tricholoracetic acid (TCA).

Deep Chemical Peels

Deep chemical peels produce greatly significant results. When superficial chemical peels require repeat treatments, phenol peels are a one-off treatment.  Deep peels are ideal for the removal of superficial wrinkles, pigmentation problems and freckle removal.

« Limitations of Chemical Peels Facial Chemical Peels »


Guide to the Different Types of Chemical Peels




Further Information Chemical Peels