Chemical peels were first used in 1834, starting when carbolic acid was discovered by German chemist Friedlieb Runge. In the early 1900s, deep chemical peels (phenol peeling) were used to treat acne scars in New York by dermatologists and in 1960s, chemical peeling received its formal recognition in America after discussion in national meetings and following impressive results. But prior to this, chemical peeling has already been used hundreds of years ago. Cleopatra used lactic and tartaric acid (in milk and red wine) to give herself mild chemical peels. We now know that sour milk and wine contain alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) which are found in a range of over-the-counter skincare products and in professional treatments in clinics. Chemical peels are extremely efficient treatments – they treat a variety of problems such as uneven skin tone, smoothens the skin by encouraging cellular renewal, removes fine lines and wrinkles, dark spots and even acne. But chemical peels intimidate people, because peels are fundamentally acids and if applied incorrectly, can cause side Continue Reading
