Dermatological Peeling | Skin quality

Peeling, also known as chemical exfoliation, is a process that aims to stimulate the controlled exfoliation of the superficial layers of the skin using a chemical solution.

The aesthetic and laser center located in Saint-Louis and a few kilometers from Mulhouse, Belfort-Montbéliard and Colmar specializes in dermatological peel treatments.

The centre uses hand-picked fruit acid, TCA or phenol products depending on the indications. An initial medical consultation is essential before any treatment.

Peeling: an aesthetic treatment to improve the quality of your skin

Skincare is an ever-changing field, with more and more innovative techniques and products emerging every day. One such technique is the dermatological peel, a non-invasive procedure that can significantly improve the appearance and health of your skin.

Peeling, also known as chemical exfoliation, is a process that aims to stimulate controlled exfoliation of the superficial layers of the skin using a chemical solution to remove the upper layers of the skin, promoting cell turnover and improving skin texture and tone. This common and safe practice does not change the structure of your face in any way.

There are different types of peels, adapted to your specific needs. Peels can be classified into three main categories based on their depth of action: superficial, medium , and deep. The key ingredients used in these peels include AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids), BHAs (beta hydroxy acids), TCA (trichloroacetic acid), and phenol.

Superficial Fruit Acid Peel (AHA): A Glow for Your Skin

The superficial peel with fruit acids is a gentle treatment that refines the texture of the skin, gives a boost of radiance and tightens pores. This type of peel does not require any recovery period and can be performed several times, usually 4 to 6 sessions on average, with recommended maintenance every 3 months.

For this type of peeling, the biolaser aesthetic center located in Saint-Louis near Mulhouse uses products from the French Eneomey and Dermaceutic range, recognized for its expertise in aesthetic care. Eneomey and Dermaceutic products are specially formulated with quality ingredients and fruit acids to deliver optimal results and glowing skin.

Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA)-based medium peel: a versatile treatment

The trichloroacetic acid (TCA) medium peel is a more intensive treatment that targets mild to severe skin imperfections, reduces fine lines and improves certain scars. This type of peeling can be performed with a customized concentration according to your specific needs.

For this type of peeling, I use products from the French brand Dermaceutic, which is renowned for its expertise in advanced aesthetic treatments. Dermaceutic products, especially those based on TCA, are developed with rigorous standards to ensure the efficacy and safety of the treatment.

Indications for peeling: brighter and more youthful skin

Peeling techniques are recommended to fight against skin aging and improve the quality of your skin. They can be used in the following cases:

  1. Pigment spots, melasmas and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
  2. Oily and/or acne-prone skin.
  3. Skin aging (helioderma)

Different types of peels to meet your needs

The peel can be superficial or medium, depending on the indication and the desired result.

  1. Superficial peeling: It refines the skin’s texture, brings radiance and tightens pores. No recovery period is necessary. In general, several sessions (about 4 to 6) are recommended, followed by a maintenance every 3 months.
  2. Depigmenting peeling: It specifically targets pigment spots, skin imperfections and the pregnancy mask (melasma). It is essential to protect the skin from sun exposure immediately after treatment.
  3. Medium peel, mainly based on trichloroacetic acid (TCA): It treats mild to severe skin imperfections, reduces fine lines, and improves certain scars.

Aesthetic consultation for peeling: a personalized approach

During your first consultation, Dr. Michaël THANACODY will carry out an in-depth analysis of your face, assessing the quality of your skin (pigment spots, vascular lesions, wrinkles, sagging skin, etc.).

Depending on your expectations and needs, he will offer you a personalized treatment plan. The number of peeling sessions as well as the detailed protocol will be explained to you during this consultation.

Peeling session: a simple and effective process

A peeling session usually lasts 15 to 30 minutes and includes several steps:

  1. Cleaning of the area to be treated.
  2. Application of the peel.
  3. Neutralization or application of a mask.

During the application of the peel, you may feel tingling and a slight sensation of heat, but this is quite bearable and disappears after a few hours.

After the peel, the Dr. Michaël THANACODY, aesthetic doctor in Saint-Louis on the border with Basel, will eventually offer an LED (phototherapy) session. LED light phototherapy soothes inflammation, promotes cell renewal caused by peeling, and optimizes results while facilitating recovery.

The ideal time for a peel: autumn and winter

The ideal time to perform a peel is when there is less sunlight, i.e. in autumn and winter.

Throughout the peeling protocol and the two months following the last treatment, it is imperative to strictly limit exposure to the sun in order to avoid any post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. It is recommended to use sun protection with SPF 50+ during this time, or even all year round if your skin is prone to pigmentation spots.

The aftermath of the treatment: smoother and more radiant skin

After the session, your skin may show a slight redness and a feeling similar to a sunburn, which will fade within a few hours.

In the days following the peel, your skin may become slightly dry and tight. After 2 to 3 days, mild to moderate flaking may appear and last for an average of a few days (about 5 days). During this period, the application of a moisturizing and repairing cream will mask this desquamation and promote the expected cell renewal.

It is essential to strictly follow the instructions for sun avoidance throughout the peeling protocol and during the two months that follow.

Results: clearer, brighter and rejuvenated skin

The results of the peel may vary depending on your skin type and the type of peel chosen. In general, your skin will be brighter, clearer and will regain a more rejuvenated appearance.

Through the use of quality products, you will be able to benefit from the benefits of superficial AHA peels and medium TCA peels, tailored to your specific needs and offering optimal results for your skin.

Do not hesitate to make an appointment for an aesthetic consultation at the aesthetic medicine center in Saint-Louis located near cities such as Basel, Mulhouse, Belfort-Montbéliard and Colmar, in order to obtain a personalized evaluation of your skin and discuss the treatment options that suit you best.

WE ANSWER YOUR QUESTIONS

Side effects of peels

Side effects of AHA peels:

1) Mild to moderate redness: After an AHA peel, it is common to see a slight redness on the treated area. This can last from a few hours to a few days, depending on the intensity of the peel.
2) Feeling of heat or tingling: You may feel a slight sensation of heat or tingling during the application of the peel. However, this is usually well tolerated and goes away quickly.
3) Light peeling: Over the days following the peel, light peeling of the skin may occur. This means that dead skin cells are naturally removed, giving way to fresher, smoother skin.
4) Increased skin sensitivity: After the peel, your skin may be temporarily more sensitive to environmental factors such as the sun, wind, or topical products. It is important to protect your skin with adequate sun protection and to use gentle, non-irritating products.

Side effects of TCA peels:

1) Redness and inflammation: After a TCA peel, more pronounced redness and inflammation may be observed. This is usually temporary and gradually disappears over the first few days after treatment.
2) Larger peeling: The TCA peel may result in more marked peeling than that seen with AHA peels. However, this is part of the cell renewal process and leads to an improvement in the texture of the skin.
3) Increased skin sensitivity: After TCA peeling, your skin may be more sensitive and reactive for a while. It is important to follow the post-treatment instructions provided by your healthcare professional for optimal healing.

It is essential to remind patients that these side effects are usually temporary and are part of the skin’s natural healing process. By following the post-peel care guidelines, they can minimize the risks and maximize the desired results. If any concerns or questions arise, it is important to discuss them with a qualified healthcare professional.

Common contraindications for AHA and TCA peels

Contraindications for AHA peels:

1) Pregnancy and lactation: AHA peels are generally not recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to the lack of sufficient data on their safety for the fetus or infant.
2) Skin hypersensitivity: People with very sensitive or reactive skin may be more prone to irritation or adverse reactions after an AHA peel. It is important to do a sensitivity test beforehand.
3) Recent use of retinoid: People who have recently taken this acne treatment should avoid AHA peels, as this can increase the risk of skin irritation or complications.
4) Skin lesions or open wounds: AHA peels should not be used on areas with skin lesions or open wounds, as this can cause additional irritation or infections.

Contraindications for TCA peels:

1) Pregnancy and breastfeeding: TCA peels are generally not recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to the lack of sufficient data on their safety.
2) High phototype: People with a high phototype, i.e. dark skin or with higher pigmentation, may be more prone to risks of pigmentation complications after a TCA peel. It is essential to carefully evaluate the benefits and risks before proceeding with a peel.
3) History of abnormal scarring: People with a history of abnormal scarring, such as hypertrophic scars or keloids, should be careful with TCA peels, as they can increase the risk of unwanted scarring.
4) Recent use of retinoid: As with AHA peels, their recent use may increase the risk of skin complications after a TCA peel.
5) Skin lesions or open wounds: As with AHA peels, TCA peels should not be used on areas with skin lesions or open wounds.

It is important to consult a qualified healthcare professional before undergoing an AHA or TCA peel to assess the specific contraindications in your case and ensure the safety and effectiveness of the treatment.

Protocol for the Treatment of Melasma

Step 1: Skin Preparation
Skin preparation is essential before any melasma treatment. It is recommended to use suitable products to cleanse and remove make-up from the face. A gentle toner can also be used to balance the pH of the skin.

Step 2: Depigmenting peeling
For the treatment of melasma, we use specific depigmenting peels such as the Crystal Peel and the Mela Peel Forte.
– For cases of recent melasma, the protocol usually begins with the application of Crystal Peel. This gentle exfoliating treatment uses microcrystals to remove dead skin cells and promote cell turnover.
– For cases of old/dermal melasma, the protocol begins directly with the application of Mela Peel Forte. This depigmenting peel contains a combination of depigmenting acids such as kojic acid, phytic acid and salicylic acid to reduce hyperpigmentation and even out skin tone.

Step 3: Post-peel care
After each peeling session, it is important to follow the post-peel care recommended by our healthcare professional. This may include applying a soothing cream to calm the skin and reduce possible redness. A moisturizer adapted to your skin type can also be used to maintain optimal hydration.
Using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high sun protection factor is essential to protect your skin from harmful UV rays, avoid post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and maintain treatment results.

Step 4: Follow-up and maintenance
We recommend regular follow-up sessions with our healthcare professional to assess the results and adjust treatment if necessary.
Your healthcare professional will provide you with specific recommendations for follow-up home care, including the use of suitable products to maintain treatment outcomes.
It is important to note that the treatment of melasma is personalized according to each individual. A qualified medical professional will assess your skin and determine the most suitable treatment protocol for your specific situation. It is therefore essential to consult a professional before starting any melasma treatment.

Feel free to make an appointment with our team for a personalized consultation and find out how our depigmenting peels can help you treat your melasma effectively and safely.

Treatment of Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation with Crystal Peel

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is a skin reaction that occurs after inflammation, such as acne, rashes, or injuries. To treat this type of hyperpigmentation, we use the Crystal Peel, a gentle exfoliating treatment that helps remove pigmented skin cells and reduce dark spots.

The Crystal Peel uses microcrystals to gently exfoliate the skin, promoting cell renewal and the removal of pigmented cells. It helps to even out skin tone and reduce post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

The treatment protocol begins with the application of the peel to the areas of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. The duration of application may vary depending on your skin’s tolerance and the healthcare professional’s recommendations. It is best to start with a short duration and gradually increase to avoid irritation.

After the peel is applied, the skin may experience a slight redness and a warm feeling, which will usually disappear within a few hours. Appropriate post-peel care is recommended, such as applying a soothing cream to calm the skin and reduce potential redness.

It is essential to follow the healthcare professional’s recommendations regarding post-peel care, including the use of a suitable moisturizer and a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high sun protection factor. Proper sun protection is essential to prevent any worsening of hyperpigmentation due to exposure to UV rays.

The number of sessions needed may vary depending on the severity of the post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and how responsive your skin is. Regular follow-up sessions with a qualified healthcare professional are recommended to assess outcomes and adjust treatment if necessary.

It is important to consult with a qualified healthcare professional to assess your skin and determine the most suitable treatment protocol for your specific case. They will be able to recommend the appropriate products and concentrations based on your individual needs and your skin’s reaction.

What can you expect from a peel?

The results of a Dermaceutic peel will depend on the type of peel you choose and the condition of your skin before the treatment. However, you can generally expect an improvement in your skin’s texture and tone, a reduction in blemishes, and a brighter, more youthful complexion.

How to prepare for a peel

Preparation is key to getting the best possible results from a peel. This includes using appropriate skin care products to prepare your skin for the peel, as well as avoiding certain products and treatments that could increase your risk of side effects.

Maintenance after a peel

After a peel, it is important to take care of your skin to maximize results and minimize side effects. This includes using proper skin care products, protecting your skin from the sun, and avoiding certain activities until your skin is completely healed.