Chemical Peel
A cosmetic procedure in which a chemical solution is applied to the skin to exfoliate and remove damaged outer layers, improving texture, tone, and pigmentation.
Full Definition
A chemical peel involves the controlled application of an exfoliating chemical agent—such as glycolic acid, trichloroacetic acid (TCA), or phenol—to the skin to induce controlled injury and subsequent regeneration. Peels are classified by depth: superficial (epidermal), medium (papillary dermis), and deep (reticular dermis). Deeper peels carry greater risk of scarring, dyspigmentation, and prolonged recovery. In editorial contexts, the term is written as two words ('chemical peel'), not hyphenated or compounded. The depth classification must be stated precisely in clinical copy, as confusing 'superficial' with 'medium-depth' has significant implications for informed consent documentation.
Usage
Usage note: Always qualify with depth (superficial, medium, deep) in clinical and consent documents. 'Chemical peel' is two words; avoid 'chemicalpeel' or 'chemical-peel'.
In Context
- "A medium-depth chemical peel using 35% TCA was performed to address solar lentigines and moderate photoageing." — Clinical procedure note
- "Editors should confirm that the peel depth is specified, as 'chemical peel' alone is insufficiently precise for consent documentation." — Regulatory/consent form review