The superficial peel is a procedure in aesthetic-oriented medicine that causes exfoliation of the superficial layer of the skin through the application of a chemical agent.
The composition of the peel used will be chosen according to the needs of the patient’s skin.
This treatment has the advantage of not causing social downtime.
The chemical peel is a treatment that removes dead cells from the epidermis or the superficial dermis using specific acids.
Unlike mechanical scrubbing, which exfoliates the skin through friction using granules, the chemical peel works without physical effort.
This treatment revives skin radiance, corrects imperfections, reduces spots, fine lines, and scars, and slows the signs of aging. The peel is particularly beneficial for patients who wish a
clearer and more even complexion because it purifies the skin and immediately improves its appearance.
There are different types of peels, each adapted to specific needs. The cosmetic peel, which can be used at home, is ideal for regular and gentle skin maintenance.
The dermatological peel, performed by a physician, provides more significant and longer-lasting results.
The results of superficial peeling are due to a triple action.
The peel is a skin treatment that is both preventive, maintenance-oriented, and curative. The indications are :
Superficial peeling is a medical procedure that can be performed at different ages ; in fact, each age has specific skin care needs.
During adolescence, peeling can help treat acne and improve skin quality by removing dead cells and reducing seborrhea, which makes the complexion more even.
At 30, peeling helps prevent the first signs of aging, such as fine lines and pigment spots, by stimulating cell renewal and reviving the skin’s natural radiance.
At 50, superficial peeling cannot reduce deeper wrinkles, but it improves skin elasticity and firmness, reduces age spots, and gives a more even complexion.
Superficial peels are gaining popularity among men who are concerned about their appearance and the health of their skin.
These treatments are particularly effective in improving skin quality, reducing imperfections, diminishing pigment spots, and reviving the complexion in men as well.
They are ideal for treating common skin concerns in men such as enlarged pores and early signs of aging. With rapid recovery and visible results from the very first sessions, superficial peels represent an effective and discreet solution for men to maintain healthy, radiant skin.
Superficial peeling can be performed on all skin types, but, for phototypes IV and higher, there is an increased risk of post-treatment hyperpigmentation. It is therefore essential to consult an experienced physician to determine the most appropriate type of peel and to supervise this treatment with the necessary precautions.
Different acids can be used for peels : salicylic acid (BHA), trichloroacetic acid (TCA), and AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) are the most commonly used, the best known of the AHAs is glycolic acid.
Depending on the skin type and the imperfection to be treated, Doctor Romano chooses the product best suited to the patient’s needs. Often, a solution containing several active ingredients is used.
The AHA peel is used when the goal is to restore skin radiance 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 size and hydrophilic properties allow it to penetrate fairly quickly.
The BHA peel is recommended in cases of oily, acne-prone skin. Thanks to its keratolytic properties, it helps unclog skin pores, thereby limiting the formation of microcysts and comedones. Its exfoliating action improves skin texture and reduces excess sebum.
The TCA peel evens out the complexion and acts against the first wrinkles. TCA is mainly used for medium peels, but a 10% TCA is a superficial peel.
At-home peels provide gentle exfoliation, which makes frequent use possible. They contain fruit acids at concentrations much lower than those used in dermatology. These peels are ideal for refreshing the complexion and purifying the skin by removing dead cells and impurities.
However, even at-home peels can lead to undesirable side effects, depending on each patient’s skin sensitivity and skin type.
Before the peeling session, it is recommended to :
On the day of the peel, on clean skin, the physician applies a pre-peel solution to degrease the skin and improve peel penetration.
Then the peel is applied using a brush and left to act for a short minute.
Once the peel is removed, a healing cream is applied.
After the peeling session, it is advised to :
The number of sessions and their frequency depend on the skin type and the issue to be treated. The protocol is personalized. The classic protocol includes three to five peels at one-month intervals. It is recommended to carry out one to two maintenance sessions per year in order to slow down skin aging and sustainably improve skin quality.
Several peeling sessions are often recommended to achieve optimal results. The first session exfoliates the superficial layers of the skin, while subsequent sessions allow treatment of deeper layers and further stimulate cell renewal. In general, three sessions spaced one month apart are ideal for visible and long-lasting results.
It is not recommended to perform the peel during sunny periods.
Superficial peels are contraindicated in the following cases :
With superficial peels, complications are rare but still possible.
The results of a superficial peel are quickly visible.
The benefits are generally noticeable after a few sessions, each treatment reinforces the effects of the previous treatments.
By removing dead cells from the skin surface, the peel gives radiance and luminosity to the complexion and refines skin texture.
Patients notice smoother, more even skin and a reduction in imperfections such as brown spots and fine lines.
In addition, superficial peeling stimulates cell renewal, making the skin firmer and more elastic.
For optimal results, it is essential to follow your physician’s recommendations.
A peel is considered unsuccessful when the results do not meet the patient’s expectations or if complications occur.
Among the complications : skin burns, hyperpigmentation and the appearance of persistent brown spots, scars, thickening of the skin, which becomes granular, skin infections.
These complications, although rare with superficial peels, can be caused by several factors : inappropriate product dosage ( the dosage must be personalized), excessive application time, operator inexperience.
In some cases, no specific cause is identified and the complications result from an unforeseen patient-related reaction.
In the event of an unsuccessful peel, it is important to consult an experienced physician for appropriate management.
The possible options are : observation and patience ( waiting a few months may be sufficient for spontaneous resolution of the complications), application of creams, laser treatment to address brown spots that appeared after the peel.
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 peeling 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 skin quality, with a reduction in small imperfections and pigment spots. Superficial peeling is particularly appreciated due to its low risk of complications and the very short recovery time. The majority of patients describe radiant, softer, and visibly rejuvenated skin after only a few sessions. This treatment is ideal for those wishing to revitalize the skin without the constraints of deeper peels.
Superficial peeling may cause a slight tingling or warming sensation, but it is generally well tolerated. Any discomfort is temporary and quickly disappears after the treatment.
Yes, superficial peels can be combined with other treatments such as PRP, Skinboosters 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.
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 superficial layers of the skin, the peel helps eliminate dead cells and impurities that can clog pores, thereby reducing their appearance and improving overall skin texture.
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 beneficial for the skin when performed correctly. They exfoliate dead cells, stimulate cell renewal, and improve various skin concerns such as pigment spots, imperfections, and the first signs of aging. However, it is essential to consult an experienced physician 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 peeling 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.
Yes, after allowing glycolic acid to act, it is essential to rinse it thoroughly with lukewarm water to neutralize it and avoid any skin irritation or burns.
It is not necessary to rinse creams based on glycolic acid.
It is generally not recommended to perform a superficial peel on tanned skin. Tanned skin is more sensitive and more prone to irritation and pigment spots. It is preferable to wait until the tan has faded before proceeding with a peel.
The results of a superficial peel are not definitive. This type of peel temporarily improves skin quality and appearance. To maintain the results, maintenance sessions are necessary.
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.
The number of sessions required depends on the condition of the skin and the patient’s aesthetic goals. In general, a cycle of 4 to 6 sessions, spaced 2 to 4 weeks apart, is recommended to achieve optimal results.
There are fruit acid–based peels available over the counter in pharmacies. The occurrence of side effects is possible because the procedure is not supervised by a physician.
Grandmother’s recipes should be avoided. .
To restore renewed skin, adopt a skincare routine including gentle cleansing, regular exfoliation, the application of serums and moisturizing creams adapted to your skin type, and daily sun protection.
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 in pharmacies, parapharmacies, and cosmetic stores. They are also present in certain foods such as citrus fruits, apples, grapes, and fermented milk.
