SUPERFICIAL PEEL WITH FRUIT ACIDS

What is a superficial peel ?

Le peeling superficiel est un acte de médecine esthétique qui cause l’exfoliation de la couche superficielle de la peau par l’application d’un agent chimique.

  • A fruit acid (AHA). The main one is glycolic acid, possibly combined with other acids such as salicylic acid or phytic acid.
  • Trichloroacetic acid or TCA at 10% or 15%.


The composition of the peel used will be selected based on the specific needs of the patient’s skin.
This treatment has the advantage of not requiring any social downtime.

Contents

Key Points

Superficial peel with fruit acids and TCA in Geneva

A chemical peel is a treatment that removes dead cells from the epidermis or superficial dermis using specific acids. Unlike mechanical exfoliation, which works through friction using grains, the chemical peel acts without physical effort. This treatment revives the skin's radiance, corrects imperfections, reduces spots, fine lines, and scars, and slows down the signs of aging.

The peel is particularly beneficial for patients seeking a brighter and more even complexion, as it purifies the skin and immediately improves its appearance. There are different types of peels, each suited to specific needs. Cosmetic peels, which can be used at home, are ideal for regular and gentle skin maintenance. Dermatological peels, performed by a physician, provide more significant and longer-lasting results.

image mechanism peeling

How does a peel work ?

The results of superficial peeling are due to a triple action.

  • Exfoliation of the superficial skin layer. This layer renews every month during adolescence and every month and a half in adulthood.
  • Reduction in sebaceous gland activity. This explains its use for oily and acne-prone skin.
  • Stimulation de la synthèse dermique. Les peelings superficiels ralentissent le vieillissement cutané en augmentant la production de fibre de collagène et d’élastine, essentiels pour la fermeté et l’élasticité de la peau.
photo of perfect skin after peeling

Who is a superficial peel for ?

A peel is a skin care treatment: both preventive and corrective.
The indications are :

  • Improvement of skin texture, particularly enlarged pores.
  • Dull complexion : peels give a real radiance boost.
  • Prevention of skin aging.
  • Acne.
  • Early skin aging : peels help improve fine lines and wrinkles.
  • Oily skin.
  • Keratosis pilaris.
  • Melasma treatment by peeling : les peelings doux au TCA sont particulièrement efficaces pour traiter le melasma, souvent appelé “masque de grossesse”. Le peeling atténue ces pigmentations tenaces et donne un teint plus uniforme en quelques séances. En général, 3 à 4 séances, espacées de 3 à 4 semaines, sont nécessaires pour observer une amélioration significative.
  • Treatment of hyperpigmented spots with peel : peels act by blocking melanin production, the pigment responsible for skin coloration. Superficial TCA peels are commonly used for this type of treatment. Several sessions are required.
  • Body imperfections : body peels utilize the exfoliating properties of acids to gently eliminate dead skin cells, refine skin texture, and stimulate microcirculation. By activating microcirculation, these peels reoxygenate tissues and enhance the absorption of moisturizing creams. Body peeling is an excellent method to revitalize the skin, protect it against external aggressors, and prevent premature aging, while toning and improving skin texture.

At what age should you get a peel?

photo age start peeling

A superficial peel is a medical procedure that can be performed at different ages, as each age has specific skin care needs.
In adolescence, the peel can help treat acne and improve skin texture by removing dead skin cells and reducing seborrhea, resulting in a more even complexion.
At 30, the peel helps prevent the first signs of aging, such as fine lines and pigment spots, by stimulating cell renewal and reviving the skin’s natural glow.
At 50, a superficial peel cannot reduce deep wrinkles, but it improves skin elasticity and firmness, reduces age spots, and provides a more even complexion.

Superficial peels for men

photo peeling man

Superficial peels are becoming increasingly popular among men concerned with their appearance and skin health.
These treatments are particularly effective in improving skin texture, reducing imperfections, minimizing pigment spots, and brightening the complexion in men as well.
They are ideal for addressing common skin concerns in men such as enlarged pores and early signs of aging. With quick recovery and visible results from the first sessions, superficial peels are an effective and discreet solution for men to maintain healthy, radiant skin.

Can a peel be performed on all skin phototypes ?

Le peeling superficiel peut être réalisé sur tous les types de peau, mais, pour les phototypes IV et supérieurs, il existe un risque accru d’hyperpigmentation post-traitement. Il est donc essentiel de consulter un médecin expérimenté pour déterminer le type de peeling le plus approprié et pour encadrer ce traitement avec les précautions nécessaires.

The different tpes of peels

Various acids can be used for peels: salicylic acid (BHA), trichloroacetic acid (TCA), and AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids), which are the most commonly used — the best-known AHA being glycolic acid. Depending on the skin type and the imperfection to be treated, Dr. Romano selects the product best suited to the patient's needs. A solution containing several active ingredients is often used.

AHA, BHA and TCA — which one to use?

photo injection for a beautiful chin

AHA peels are used when the goal is to restore radiance to the skin and visibly reduce fine lines. AHA exfoliates the most superficial part of the epidermis and acts on the cells of the stratum corneum. Its small molecular size and hydrophilic properties allow it to penetrate relatively quickly.

BHA peels are preferred for oily and acne-prone skin. Thanks to its keratolytic properties, it helps to unclog pores, thereby limiting the formation of microcysts and comedones. Its exfoliating action improves skin texture and reduces excess sebum.

TCA peels even out the complexion and act on early wrinkles. TCA is primarily used for medium-depth peels, but a 10% TCA solution is considered a superficial peel. 

At-home peels

At-home peels provide gentle exfoliation, making them suitable for frequent use. They contain fruit acids at much lower concentrations than those used in dermatological settings. These peels are ideal for refreshing the complexion and purifying the skin by removing dead cells and impurities. However, even at-home peels can cause unwanted side effects, depending on each patient’s skin type and sensitivity.

photo of peeling session

How does a peeling session take place ?

Before the peeling session, it is recommended to :

  • Apply the cream prescribed by your doctor, starting three weeks before the session, to prepare the skin and avoid pigment rebound.
  • Avoid any exfoliating treatments (scrubs, exfoliating masks, acne creams…) for three weeks prior.
  • Shave the evening before (for men).

On the day of the peel, on clean skin, the doctor applies a pre-peel solution to degrease the skin and enhance the penetration of the peeling solution.
Then, the peel is applied with a brush and left on for about one minute. Once removed, a healing cream is applied to the skin.

After the peeling session, it is advised to :

  • Avoid sun exposure for one month.
  • Apply a healing cream for one week.
  • Avoid any skin irritation.

How often should you get a peel ? The peel protocol

The number and frequency of sessions depend on your skin type and the concern being treated. The protocol is personalized. The standard protocol includes three to five peels spaced one month apart. One to two maintenance sessions per year are recommended to slow down skin aging and maintain long-lasting improvements in skin texture.

Why three peel sessions ?

Plusieurs séances de peeling sont souvent recommandées pour obtenir des résultats optimaux. La première séance exfolie les couches superficielles de la peau, tandis que les séances suivantes permettent de traiter les couches plus profondes et de stimuler davantage le renouvellement cellulaire. En général, trois séances espacées d’un mois sont idéales pour des résultats visibles et durables.

Contraindications

photo how to remove botox

It is not recommended to perform the peel during sunny periods.
Superficial peels are contraindicated in the following cases :

  • Contact allergies.
  • Infection, lesion, or skin cancer on the area to be treated.
  • Use of certain acne medications.
  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding.

What are the risks of a peel ?

With superficial peels, complications are rare but still possible.

  • Apparition de croûtes : souvent dues à une exposition prématurée au soleil sur une peau foncée ou à l’utilisation d’un produit trop agressif.
  • Indented or raised scars : extremely rare after a superficial peel and usually due to aggressive manipulation of the skin by the patient.
  • Brown spots : hyperpigmentation may occur, especially in patients with darker skin tones.
  • Bacterial infections : these require appropriate medical treatment to avoid serious complications.
  • Infections herpétiques : les patients ayant des antécédents d’herpès labial peuvent développer un herpès facial généralisé après un peeling. Dans ce cas il est nécessaire de prendre un traitement préventif anti-herpétique.

Results before / after a superficial peel

Results from a superficial peel are quickly visible.
The benefits usually become apparent after a few sessions, with each treatment reinforcing the effects of the previous ones.
By removing dead skin cells from the surface, the peel brightens and illuminates the complexion while refining the skin texture.
Patients notice smoother, more even skin and a reduction in imperfections such as brown spots and fine lines.
In addition, the superficial peel stimulates cellular renewal, making the skin firmer and more elastic.
For optimal results, it is essential to follow your doctor’s recommendations.

What is a 'failed peel' ?

A peel is considered “failed” when the results do not meet the patient’s expectations or if complications arise.

Possible complications include:

  • Skin burns.
  • Hyperpigmentation, with the appearance of persistent brown spots.
  • Scarring.
  • Skin thickening, leading to a rough or grainy texture.
  • Skin infections.


These complications, although rare with superficial peels, can be caused by several factors :

  • Inappropriate product dosage : the dosage must be tailored.
  • Excessive application time.
  • Lack of experience from the practitioner.

Dans certains cas, aucune cause spécifique n’est identifiée et les complications résultent d’une réaction imprévue liée au patient.

Solutions after a failed peel

If a peel goes wrong, it is crucial to consult an experienced doctor for appropriate management.

Possible options include :

  • Observation and patience : waiting a few months may be enough for spontaneous resolution.
  • Topical creams.
  • Laser treatment : to reduce brown spots that appear after the peel.

Superficial peel price in Geneva :

In Geneva, the price of a superficial peel is set at 200 CHF per session. This type of treatment is often part of a progressive protocol, with frequency and duration depending on skin needs and the individual response to the care. The number of sessions may vary based on skin type, the targeted concern, and the aesthetic goals defined during the consultation. The price remains fixed per session, regardless of the indication treated.

Superficial peel : reviews

The superficial peel is highly appreciated by patients for its effectiveness.
Thanks to the use of gentle acids, this treatment delicately exfoliates the superficial layers of the skin, revealing a brighter and more even complexion. Patients often notice an immediate improvement in their skin texture, with a reduction in small imperfections and pigmentation spots. The superficial peel is particularly valued due to its low risk of complications and very short recovery time. Most patients describe their skin as radiant, softer, and visibly rejuvenated after just a few sessions. This treatment is ideal for those looking to revitalize their skin without the downtime associated with deeper peels.

Is a superficial peel painful?

The superficial peel may cause a slight sensation of stinging or heat, but is generally well tolerated. Any discomfort is temporary and disappears quickly after treatment.

Yes, superficial peels can be combined with other treatments such as the PRP injectionsSkinboosters injections or mesotherapy.

This depends on the problems to be treated and the type of skin. Superficial peels based on AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids), such as glycolic acid, are widely used for their ability to gently exfoliate, improve skin texture and revive radiance. TCA peels are more suitable for pigmentation and skin ageing.

Several factors can influence the effectiveness of a peel.

  • Poor skin preparation.
  • Use of inappropriate products.
  • Unrealistic expectations in relation to results.

It's important to remember that several sessions are needed to achieve significant results.

A peel cannot 'remove' pores, but it can make them less visible. By exfoliating the surface layers of the skin, a peel helps to remove dead cells and impurities that can clog pores, reducing their appearance and improving the overall texture of the skin.

The effects of a superficial peel are generally visible a few days after the treatment, once the skin has had time to heal. The complexion improves and the skin becomes smoother. For optimal, long-lasting results, several sessions are required.

Yes, peels are good for the skin when done correctly. They exfoliate dead cells, stimulate cell renewal and improve various skin problems such as pigmentation spots, blemishes and the first signs of ageing. However, it is essential to consult an experienced doctor to determine the type of peel best suited to your skin.

The best time to have a peel is generally autumn or winter, when the sun is not shining. In fact, UV rays can sensitise the skin after a peel, increasing the risk of hyperpigmentation. 

A superficial peel session generally lasts about ten minutes.

After a superficial peel, it is important to moisturise the skin regularly and apply sun protection and a healing cream. Sun exposure and the use of irritating and exfoliating products should be avoided for a month after treatment.

A facial peel is a non-invasive medical procedure that involves applying a chemical solution to the skin to exfoliate and remove damaged surface layers.

Oui, après avoir laissé agir l’acide glycolique, il est essentiel de le rincer abondamment à l’eau tiède pour le neutraliser et éviter toute irritation ou brûlure de la peau.
Glycolic acid-based creams do not need to be rinsed off.

Il est généralement déconseillé de réaliser un peeling superficiel sur une peau bronzée. La peau bronzée est plus sensible et plus sujette aux irritations et aux taches pigmentaires. Il est préférable d’attendre que le bronzage s’estompe avant de procéder à un peeling.

Les résultats d’un peeling superficiel ne sont pas définitifs. Ce type de peeling améliore temporairement la texture et l’aspect de la peau. Pour conserver les résultats des séances d’entretien sont nécessaires.

Yes, it is possible to return to work immediately after a superficial peel. However, the skin may be slightly red and more sensitive for a few hours to a few days after treatment.

Dr Romano personally carries out the peels.

Le nombre de séances nécessaires dépend de l’état de la peau et des objectifs esthétiques du patient. En général, un cycle de 4 à 6 séances, espacées de 2 à 4 semaines, est recommandé pour obtenir des résultats optimaux.

Fruit acid-based peels are available over the counter from chemists. Side effects may occur, as the procedure is not supervised by a doctor.
Grandma's recipes should be avoided .

Pour retrouver une peau neuve, adoptez une routine de soins incluant le nettoyage doux, l’exfoliation régulière, l’application de sérums et de crèmes hydratantes adaptés à votre type de peau et la protection solaire quotidienne.
Medical treatments (peels, mesotherapy, injections and lasers) are the most effective.

Fruit acids, or AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids), are found in many skincare products available from chemists, parapharmacists and cosmetics shops. They are also present in certain foods such as citrus fruits, apples, grapes and fermented milk.

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