Is a Salicylic Chemical Peel for Me?

Here at Event SkinCare, we have a variety of skin care treatments, including Salicylic Peels, to get smoother, more youthful-looking skin. 

Do you frequently get pimples? A BHA that works well to target the oil glands is salicylic acid. Salicylic acid is oil-soluble, penetrating deep into your pores to relieve congestion; therefore, this peel is excellent for someone with congested, acne-prone skin. Additionally, it can eliminate oils that accumulate and result in comedones (aka whiteheads and blackheads). It also contains anti-inflammatory qualities that can soothe aggravated outbreaks.

Which Skin Conditions Do Salicylic Acid Peels Treat? 

Salicylic acid peels improve:

• melasma

• rosacea

• post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation

• freckles

• fine lines

• mild photodamage

• texturally rough skin

I often reach for this peel to treat several types of acne, including comedones and mild to moderate inflammatory acne.

Who Should Not Get Salicylic Chemical Peels

There are a few contraindications to salicylic acid chemical peeling. It is well tolerated in all skin types and all racial/ethnic groups. Those with the following conditions should avoid salicylic peeling: salicylate (aspirin) hypersensitivity or allergy; active inflammation/dermatitis or infection at the salicylic acid peeling site; acute viral infection; pregnancy; and isotretinoin therapy within 3–6 months of the peeling procedure.

Do Salicylic Peels Have Side Effects?

Salicylic acid peels are well tolerated and safe for most people. The peeling process will naturally cause mild after effects, but your skin will usually heal within 1 to 2 weeks. ‌

You might experience:

• Redness

• Swelling

• Dryness

• Scaling

• Itchiness

What to do Before a Salicylic Peel?

To improve results, topical retinoids or retinol two to six weeks before your peel to thin the top layer of skin and enhance exfoliation. Retinoids can reduce the amount of melanin, speed epidermal healing, and improve the penetration of the peel. They should be discontinued one week before the peeling procedure. 

A healing and moisturizing lotion and glycolic acid two weeks before a light peel can help your skin heal more efficiently and uniformly.

People with dark skin or hyperpigmentation should use melanin inhibitors (like hydroquinone) twice daily at a minimum of four to six weeks before a chemical peel. These products slow down melanin production, helping the skin maintain a more even tone and colour.

For those with acne vulgaris, benzoyl peroxide-based products are initiated 2 to 4 weeks before peeling, can be used daily and discontinued 1 or 2 days before peeling. 

What Happens During A Salicylic Chemical Peel

To achieve maximum results, I recommend a series of three to six peels performed at 2- to 4-week intervals.

Before treatment is applied, the face is thoroughly cleansed with alcohol to remove oils. A handheld fan reduces mild burning and stinging during the procedure. After 3–5 minutes, the skin is thoroughly rinsed with water and a gentle cleanser to remove residual salicylic acid, followed by a soothing mask and moisturizer.

Post-peeling Care 

Continue using gentle cleansers, and moisturizers for 48h or until all post-peel irritation subsides; then, you can resume your regular skin care regimen, including hydroquinone, acne medications, and retinoids. 

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