The author provides a comprehensive overview of skin peels as one of the main treatment options for the improvement of photodamage, hyperpigmentation and mild acne, whilst reinforcing that aesthetic practitioners have a responsibility to inform patients of all the available treatment options. A strong emphasis is placed upon the importance of clinicians having a sound awareness of peel ingredients; more acknowledgement could have been placed on the importance of a sound dermatological awareness. A clear overview is presented of the mode of action of superficial and deep peels, alluding to the challenge of treating melasma, and the importance of effective skin preparation prior to chemical peeling. The author describes salicylic acid peels to have anti-inflammatory properties which ‘dissolve’ follicular impactions, yet there is robust evidence that salicylic acid is not recommended as one of the first-line topical therapies owing to its comparatively weak keratolytic properties in comparison to other first-line topical therapies for acne. The piece is written from the author’s experience of specific peel brands; principally Neostrata, Obagi and The Perfect Peel, as well as Phenol peels. Peel complications are explored with recommended and referenced management strategies. A useful piece for aesthetic nurses contemplating the addition of chemical peels to their treatment menu or those looking to expand their existing knowledge on some of the mild to moderate chemical peels available.
Maximising treatment outcomes with skin peels
Reviewed by Anna Baker
Maximizing treatment outcomes with skin peels: products, preparation and procedures.
