Peeling – Different Types, Applications, And More

Peeling originally comes from English and means something like “peel” or “peel.” It refers to removing superficial skin cells, which refines the complexion and stimulates blood circulation. The different types of peeling also have other effects.

Mechanical Peeling

A mechanical peel is understood to mean preparations that contain tiny abrasive particles. They gently remove dead skin cells and superficial calluses from your skin.

Microdermabrasion can also be assigned to this category since microcrystals are distributed on the skin with the help of a device designed for this purpose. As a result, they can achieve the same or even more intensive effect than with a mechanical peeling.

However, these types of mechanical peeling are only suitable to a limited extent for certain types of skin, for example, sensitive skin or acne with severe inflammation, since micro-injuries or smear infections can be dissolved.

Enzyme Peeling

With an enzyme peeling, the name says it all because, in short, protein-splitting enzymes are used, which cause the detachment of the horny cells. The effectiveness of the enzymes shows the loosening of the proteins in the horny cells. When used, the peelings behave in such a way that they are given in powder form and mixed with warm water shortly before use. This process activates the enzymes and unfolds their effect.

Due to their milder effect, reddening or unpleasant tingling on the skin occurs less frequently. Therefore, an enzyme peeling is particularly suitable for sensitive, inflamed skin, couperose, and rosacea. Since enzymes are relatively large molecules, they cannot penetrate very deeply into the top layer of skin (epidermis). But that’s not even wanted. Removing dead skin cells primarily results in a refreshed and regular complexion.

Even with impure skin or acne, it is advantageous to regularly remove calluses on the face and thus open clogged pores. Another advantage is that active ingredients applied after an enzymatic peeling can penetrate the skin better.

Fruit Acid Peeling

Fruit acid peels belong to the group of chemical peels. They have long been used in dermatological and cosmetic practices to regenerate and activate the skin. Fruit acid peelings can be used on a wide range of skin types , both for pigment and age spots, acne, rosacea, neurodermatitis and in the anti-aging area.

The pH value used in the formulation also has a decisive influence on the degree of effectiveness. The higher the acid concentration and the lower the pH value of the product, the stronger the horn-dissolving and regenerating effect.

Alpha-hydroxy acids are carboxylic acids of organic origin with a hydroxyl group in the α-position. It can be synthesized from plants, unripe grapes, or sugar cane and has an excellent penetration capacity due to its small molecular size. Targeted active ingredients can also be introduced into the skin with the help of fruit acid peeling and achieve a more significant effect on the skin.

Phenol Peeling

A peeling with depth. The phenol peeling is the most well-known deep chemical Peel and has a penetration depth down to the middle “stratum reticular” of the dermis.

Temporary damage to the skin is caused by the application and exposure to a phenol solution. After exposure, edema (swelling) and an inflammatory reaction develop in the epidermis and dermis. The ensuing epidermal necrosis (the death of multiple cells) promotes skin regeneration and the migration of new cells.

Conclusion

A skincare routine is essential for every person of any age. It helps in maintaining the skin structure and assists in regrowth. The peelings are of various kinds. However, each type of peeling has its advantage and supports the skin.