Chemical Peels

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Chemical Peels - Skin Deep Science

  • Definition: Controlled chemexfoliation using topical chemical agents to achieve skin regeneration and remodeling.
  • Classification by Depth & Target Layer:
    • Very Superficial: Stratum corneum (e.g., low conc. Glycolic acid <30%).
    • Superficial: Epidermis to papillary dermis (e.g., Glycolic acid 30-70%, Jessner’s solution).
    • Medium: Papillary to upper reticular dermis (e.g., TCA 35-50%).
    • Deep: Mid-reticular dermis (e.g., Phenol, high conc. TCA >50%). Chemical Peel Depths

⭐ Baker-Gordon phenol peel is a deep peel; cardiac monitoring is essential due to risk of arrhythmias from phenol absorption.

Chemical Peels - Agent Arsenal

AgentTypeCommon Conc.DepthKey IndicationsNeutralizationSpecific Pointers/Toxicity
Glycolic AcidAHA20-70%SuperficialAcne, PIH, photoaging, melasmaWater, $NaHCO_3$Smallest molecule AHA; monitor frosting
Lactic AcidAHA10-30%SuperficialSensitive skin, rosacea, moisturizingWaterMilder AHA, hydrating; good for dry skin
Salicylic AcidBHA20-30%SuperficialAcne (comedonal), oily skin, PIHSelf-neutralizing (most)Lipophilic, comedolytic; Salicylism (rare)
Jessner's SolutionMixSalicylic 14%, Lactic 14%, Resorcinol 14%Superficial to MediumAcne, photoaging, PIHSelf-neutralizing📌 SLR (Salicylic, Lactic, Resorcinol); Resorcinol: allergy, thyroid dysfunction
TCATCA10-25% (Sup)
35-50% (Med)
Superficial
Medium
Acne scars, fine lines, AKs, lentiginesWater, $NaHCO_3$Frosting indicates depth; ↑risk scarring/dyspigmentation with ↑conc.
Phenol (Baker-Gordon)Phenol88% (pure) or
BG (45-50%)
DeepSevere photoaging, deep wrinkles, resistant scarsMineral oil (skin)Cardiotoxic (ECG, IV fluids), hepatotoxic, nephrotoxic; prolonged hypopigmentation, lines of demarcation

Chemical Peels - Peel Protocol

  • Pre-Peel:
    • Priming agents: Topical retinoids, hydroquinone for 2-4 weeks.
    • Antiviral prophylaxis (e.g., acyclovir) if history of herpes simplex.
    • Assess Fitzpatrick skin type.
  • Procedure:
    • Thoroughly cleanse skin; protect sensitive areas (eyes, nares, lips).
    • Apply peel solution evenly and rapidly.
    • Monitor for endpoint: e.g., erythema, frosting (TCA).
      • TCA Chemical Peel Frosting Endpoint
    • Neutralization (e.g., sodium bicarbonate for glycolic acid).
  • Post-Peel:
    • Soothing agents: Cool compresses, mild cleansers, calamine.
    • Strict sun protection (broad-spectrum SPF >30).
    • Emollients to aid healing.
    • Detailed patient instructions: Avoid picking, sun exposure.

⭐ TCA frosting levels: Level 1 (faint white blush, erythema visible), Level 2 (white coat with underlying erythema), Level 3 (solid white enamel frosting, no erythema).

Chemical Peels - Uses & Warnings

IndicationsContraindications
* Acne vulgaris (comedonal, mild papulopustular)* Active infection (herpes simplex, bacterial, fungal)
* Melasma, Chloasma, lentigines* Open wounds, active dermatitis, sunburn
* Photoaging (fine wrinkles, texture)* History of keloids or hypertrophic scarring
* Superficial acne scars, PIE, PIH* Unrealistic patient expectations or compliance
* Dyschromias (e.g., ephelides)* Pregnancy/Lactation (relative for some peels)
* Isotretinoin use (within preceding 6 months)
* Aspirin/salicylate allergy (for salicylic acid)

Chemical Peels - Side Effect Savvy

  • Common Complications:
    • Erythema, edema, pain: Cool compresses, topical steroids, oral analgesics.
    • PIH (Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation): Common in darker skin. Prevention: strict sun protection. Treatment: hydroquinone.
    • Desquamation: Expected process; manage with bland emollients. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
  • Serious/Rare Complications:
    • Scarring (keloids): Intralesional corticosteroids.
    • Infection (bacterial/herpetic): Prophylactic antivirals (HSV history). Treat promptly with antimicrobials.
    • Hypopigmentation: Often permanent; very difficult to treat.
    • Allergic reactions: Antihistamines, systemic steroids if severe.
    • Cardiac toxicity (Phenol): Arrhythmias. Requires ECG monitoring, IV fluids, emergency support.

⭐ Phenol peel systemic toxicity (cardiac, renal) relates to dose & area; limit to < 10% BSA per session.

High‑Yield Points - ⚡ Biggest Takeaways

  • Superficial peels (e.g., Glycolic acid, Salicylic acid) act primarily on the epidermis.
  • Medium-depth peels (e.g., TCA 35-50%) reach the papillary dermis.
  • Deep peels (e.g., Phenol, high TCA >50%) penetrate to the reticular dermis; Phenol carries cardiotoxicity risk.
  • Jessner's solution is a combination peel containing salicylic acid, lactic acid, and resorcinol.
  • Key indications include acne vulgaris, melasma, photoaging, and superficial scars.
  • Important contraindications: Active infection (e.g., herpes simplex), keloidal tendency, recent isotretinoin use, pregnancy.
  • Common complications: Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), hypopigmentation, persistent erythema, scarring, and infection.

Practice Questions: Chemical Peels

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Which of the following are treatment options for acne vulgaris?

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Flashcards: Chemical Peels

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Baker-Gordon phenol formula is an example of _____ chemical peel

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Baker-Gordon phenol formula is an example of _____ chemical peel

Deep (reticular dermal)

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