As it would imply, medium peels are in stronger concentrations than light peels. Medium peels remove parts of the epidermal layer resulting in deeper penetration of the skin. A series of treatments, over time, will produce measurable and sustained results with little or no downtime.
Medium peel treatments are cumulative so that each peel improves on the previous one. The flaking or peeling that can occur can be soothed and minimized with take home products.
These are the peels that should be part of an ongoing skin care commitment. For the best measurable and sustained results, medium peels should be taken at least every two to three months; and, in many cases, once a month.
As would be expected, these peels use stronger levels of glycolic, salicylic and lactic acids; Jessner peels, which are a combination of salicylic, resorcinol and lactic acids; resorcinol; and TCA.
A medium-depth peel, particularly when using TCA, can address fine lines, wrinkles, uneven skin tone and problematic skin. It can be used on all parts of the body. In fact, TCA can be used on all skin types including darker skins if they have been pre-treated properly.
A Jessner peel is a mixture of salicylic and lactic acid combined with resorcinol, an exfoliating agent. The results of this peel are spectacular and severe. There is definitely down time with this peel as it will cause cracking and peeling of skin after an initial period of darkening. After a Jessner peel the skin looks and feels soft and smooth. Pigmentation may even be temporarily improved along with fine lines.
As with the light peel, SPF25 or better is an absolute must to avoid sun burn and recurring pigmentation.
Just so you know, I don’t offer Jessner peels because of the down time. However, the same results can be accomplished with the TCA.