A micro skin peel, is a cosmetic non-surgical procedure to treat

• Acne prone skin
• Pigmentation
• Environmentally damaged skin
• Fine lines/wrinkles
• Areas of dryness

by peeling away the skin’s top layers, using AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) such as glycolic, lactic or fruit acid.

A micro peel is done when the following are present

• Acne prone skin
• Pigmentation
• Environmentally damaged skin
• Fine lines/wrinkles

• Candidates who are physically healthy, psychologically healthy and have realistic expectations from the procedure
• Candidates who wish to enhance their appearance
• Candidates who seek improvement rather than perfection

• Scarring, infection or abnormal pigmentation.

• During the initial consultation, the expectations as well as the complete medical history of the patient are understood
• Photographs are taken for further comparison after procedure.
• A careful history and physical exam of the face will be done to determine the skin type, skin thickness and degree of wrinkling and whether the treatment is the right decision.
• The doctor discusses and advises on options of anaesthesia, type of facilities, various techniques and cost with the patient.
• A small “test spot” may be peeled to get a better idea of the results, especially for people with darker skin.
• The doctor provides guidelines on eating and drinking, smoking, taking or avoiding certain vitamins and medications
• The patient must be free of skin infections, including acne and any type cold sore, especially herpes simplex sores.
• Two to three weeks before the peel, the patient will need to begin preparing the skin by cleansing it twice a day, applying a special moisturizer or cream once or twice a day, and using sunscreen every day.
• The patient may be given a short course of medication (such as acyclovir) a few days before the peel to prevent viral infection.
• The patient must not take Acutance for twelve to 18 months before treatment, depending on the doctor’s specifications.
• The patient must limit exposure to the sun for at least a month before undergoing the peel.
• The patient must arrange for transportation and assistance.

No anaesthesia is needed for AHA peels since they cause only a slight stinging sensation during application.

• The skin is thoroughly cleaned by rubbing alcohol or acetone to remove any traces of grease.
• The AHA solution is applied to the area to be treated (avoiding the eyes, brows and lips) using sponge, cotton pad, swab or brush.
• The chemical is left on the skin for 2 to 7 minutes, depending on the type of chemical used.
• Water is used to neutralize the acid and end the chemical reaction and wiped off.
• A slight burning sensation is felt while the chemical is on the skin. A handheld fan can help cool the skin and relieve any discomfort.

The procedure takes lesser than 10 minutes

The treatment is done as an outpatient procedure.

• Temporary flaking or scaling, redness and dryness are seen
• Immediately following the micro peel, the patient can apply makeup and return to usual activities.
• Most will have no outward evidence of the peel, but those with fair skin may have a red complexion for a day.

• Patient can immediately resume normal activities.
• No covering or after-peel ointment is necessary.
• Sun block must be used
• Six peels are required at two week intervals to achieve optimal results
• Following the first six peels, the patient must continue using skin care products regularly at home and have maintenance peels every two to three months.
• AHA can be mixed with a facial cream or wash in milder concentrations as part of a daily skin-care regimen.