Medium-Depth and Deep Chemical Peels

Chemical peeling, or chemoexfoliation, was used to enhance skin appearance by reducing wrinkles and signs of photoaging. Medium-depth peels, typically using 35-50% trichloroacetic acid (TCA) alone or combined with Jessner's solution, 70% glycolic acid, and solid CO2, provided excellent results with fewer side effects compared to deep peels. Application involved smooth strokes with a cotton-tipped applicator and blotting excess TCA. Postoperative care included cleansing. Complications were rare but could include pigmentation changes, erythema, scars, infections, and milia. Deep peels with phenol, particularly occluded Baker's formula phenol, were more effective but risked severe complications like cardiac and renal issues, requiring careful application and similar aftercare to medium-depth peels.