What is a facial peel? It is a highly effective aesthetic procedure aimed at gentle yet deep cleansing of the skin using chemical, hardware, or enzymatic agents. In professional cosmetology, a facial peel is considered a controlled exfoliation of the upper keratinized layer of the epidermis, the destruction of which activates natural cell renewal processes and stimulates collagen and elastin synthesis. This skin renewal method has a pronounced rejuvenating effect. It allows visible improvement in skin tone, texture, and overall appearance after just a few sessions. That’s why facial peeling is a fundamental procedure in professional skincare systems for all ages. Since the procedure involves targeted and controlled disruption of the skin’s surface layer, it’s crucial to ensure a precise technique selection. Anacosma cosmetologists always consider skin type, thickness, patient’s age, and specific aesthetic goals. The quality and safety of the result depend on an accurate individual approach and proper aftercare. Why and who needs a facial peel? Why is a facial peel necessary? In professional cosmetology, this procedure is used as a tool for deep “bio-revitalization” without injections. It helps gently eliminate external skin imperfections and activate internal regenerative resources. A facial peel helps to: even out tone and microrelief; lighten pigmentation; minimize fine lines; reduce pores and post-acne marks; improve overall skin turgor; stimulate active cell renewal. A facial peel is recommended for: signs of aging from 25+ to 50+; post-acne, scars, and textural irregularities; hyperpigmentation of various origins; dull, tired-looking skin; photoaging and loss of elasticity. The procedure is also effective for preventing age-related changes, even for young skin. In every case, the peeling method is selected individually, considering skin needs, sensitivity, and the desired result. Types of facial peels Modern aesthetic medicine classifies peels by their method of action and depth of impact. This division allows precise adaptation of the procedure to the specific needs of each patient, taking into account skin condition, age, and expected results. By method of action Chemical peelThis is the most common form of peeling, using acids (lactic, fruit, salicylic, mandelic). They work by breaking intercellular bonds, gently removing keratinized skin layers and triggering active regeneration processes.A chemical facial peel is a precise, controlled stimulation that helps even out skin tone, improve texture, and reduce post-acne marks and signs of aging. It’s an excellent choice for oily or combination skin, or when multiple aesthetic concerns need to be addressed simultaneously. Mechanical peel (microdermabrasion)This is an instrument-based micro-polishing of the skin surface using microcrystals (often aluminum). Microdermabrasion “sweeps away” dead skin cells, evening out microrelief and improving complexion.The procedure is recommended for patients with scars, post-acne, pigmentation spots, or shallow wrinkles. For best results, a course of 8–12 sessions is usually prescribed. If you’re deciding between a peel or laser resurfacing, microdermabrasion is a great compromise — gentle yet effective, with minimal downtime. Laser peel / laser resurfacingOne of the most high-tech methods of deep rejuvenation. Under the action of a laser beam, the keratinized epidermal layer literally evaporates, triggering intense tissue restructuring. In the case of a carbon peel, a carbon gel is first applied to enhance cleansing and regulate sebaceous gland activity.Laser resurfacing is effective for age-related changes: loss of elasticity, wrinkles, pigmentation, and couperose. The rejuvenating effect can last up to two years. Ultrasonic peelAlso known as ultrasonic cleansing. The device’s tip generates waves that delicately remove keratinized tissue and excess sebum. This is an atraumatic method suitable even for very sensitive or thin skin. If you’re wondering how peeling differs from cleansing, ultrasonic peeling is the middle ground: deeper than traditional cleansing but gentler than most other peels. Enzymatic (fermented) peelIdeal for gentle cleansing without irritation. Active ingredients (papain, bromelain) break intercellular bonds, softly evening out tone and texture. Suitable for all skin types and any age. Especially valued for reducing pores, normalizing sebum production, and refreshing the skin without aggressive effects. By depth of impact Surface peelA light skin renewal without downtime — that’s the best description. It’s chosen by patients who want to refresh skin tone, improve the overall look, and prepare the skin for important events. Surface peels include enzymatic agents, AHA-peels, and microdermabrasion. This option is well-tolerated and allows a quick return to daily activities. Medium peelPrescribed for early signs of aging, scars, and stretch marks. This category includes acid and carbon peels. Mild redness may appear after the procedure but usually subsides quickly with proper care. The medium peel strikes a balance between effectiveness and recovery time. Deep peelA serious anti-age technique with a pronounced lifting effect. Laser resurfacing or deep chemical peels not only renew the skin but also stimulate collagen synthesis in the dermis. Recovery may take up to 10 days (after laser resurfacing) or up to 2 months (after deep chemical peels), but the results can last up to two years. At-home peeling: pros and cons Doing a facial peel at home may sound appealing: minimal cost, maximum convenience. The abundance of available products also encourages home experiments. However, behind this apparent simplicity lies a real risk, since peeling isn’t just a cream — acid emulsions deliberately induce microtrauma to the skin, and this process requires precision and proper aftercare. Advantages of at-home peels: Accessibility — products are easy to find in pharmacies or stores. Speed — the procedure takes only a few minutes. “Refreshing” effect — but only with the right product and careful use. Disadvantages and risks: High risk of disrupting the skin’s pH balance. Lack of individual approach — you may not know if a peel is safe for your skin type. Uncontrolled penetration depth — acids can cause irritation, pigmentation, or even burns. No medical supervision — in case of unwanted reactions, there’s no specialist to adjust recovery or recommend treatment. In professional cosmetology, every step — from cleansing to moisturizing — is supervised by a doctor. That’s why the answer to how a peel is performed at home vs. in a clinic is fundamentally different. At Anacosma, you receive safety, predictable results, and full procedure customization to your skin type. How often can you get a facial peel in a salon? Professional skincare has clear boundaries — the frequency of procedures depends on peel depth and aesthetic goals: Surface peel — once every 7–10 days. Medium peel — approximately once a month. Deep laser resurfacing — no more than 1–2 times a year. Peeling procedures are recommended as a course. Post-peel skincare recommendations After a facial peel, the skin enters an active renewal phase, so proper care is crucial for achieving the desired results. Key points to consider: Sun protection. Freshly exfoliated skin is extremely sensitive to UV rays; without SPF protection, there’s a high risk of pigmentation and photoaging. Cleansing. Use only mild, alcohol-free cleansers. Your cosmetologist will recommend suitable products based on your skin type and peel depth. Hygiene. Avoid touching your face, change towels and pillowcases daily, and do not pick at any flaking skin — new dermal tissue forms beneath it. A peel at Anacosma is a procedure performed with exceptional precision. If you want guaranteed safety and a deep understanding of skin processes, trust only professionals! FAQ: 1. Which is better: facial peel or laser resurfacing?It depends on your skin’s condition and desired results. A peel gently renews surface layers, while laser resurfacing works deeper and effectively eliminates wrinkles and scars. 2. How often can you get a facial peel in a salon?Depending on the peel type — from once every 2–4 weeks for surface peels to once every few months for medium and deep procedures. 3. Is facial peeling harmful?When performed professionally and followed by proper aftercare — no. Peeling is effective, stimulates skin regeneration, and improves overall condition. 4. What’s the difference between peeling and facial cleansing?Peeling dissolves and removes dead skin cells chemically or mechanically, while cleansing removes comedones and pore impurities manually.
