Facial peeling in Paris
Aesthetic medicine at Henri Mondor Hospital
Facial peeling in Paris
Aesthetic medicine, Professor Hersant
What is a peel?
A peel consists of applying a chemical substance (usually an acid) to the skin in order to cause limited, controlled destruction of the epidermis or even the superficial layers of the dermis. The aim of this destruction is to regenerate the destroyed layers and stimulate the production of elastic fibres and collagen in the underlying layers, in order to densify the skin.
The indications are :
Helodermia (= sun-related skin damage): brown spots, blurred complexion, fine lines, etc.
Skin pigmentation such as pregnancy mask
Acne, particularly blackheads and microcysts, pigmented spots after acne pimples and acne scars.
Aesthetic medicine at Henri Mondor Hospital
Facial peeling in Paris
Glycolic acid or trichloroacetic acid (TCA) diluted between 10 and 25% can be used. TCA is a trichloro derivative of acetic acid (= the acid in vinegar). It is a non-toxic, non-allergenic substance. Weakly concentrated TCA applied to degreased skin causes frosting (= whitening and pinkening of the superficial layers of the epidermis).
The skin is first degreased by exfoliation. The TCA is then applied using an instrument (compress, cotton wool, cotton bud, etc.). This application is often painful, with patients complaining of a sensation of ‘heat’ or even burning for a few minutes as the frosting appears on the skin. Several applications can then be made, followed by neutralisation.
For patients with an important social life and unable to avoid social contact, we can do ‘return peels’ which give a rosy complexion. This peel is less effective but can be repeated every 3 weeks to obtain an equivalent effect.
Facial peels in Paris
Pr Hersant surgery & aesthetic medicine
What happens after the peel?
The after-effects of a TCA peel are marked by rosiness and desquamation lasting about a week.
What are the complications?
Complications of superficial peeling are rare, but may include reactive hyperpigmentation in the event of sun exposure too early on dark skin, or the appearance of scars in the event of accidental destruction of the epidermis (scabs). Allergies are rare. In the case of an allergic background, a test can be carried out on a cm2 of skin behind the ear.