Chemical Peel Specialist Course

Lesson 1 • Skin Cell Biology Essentials

Examine keratinocytes, melanocytes, fibroblasts, and Langerhans cells. Understanding each cell type explains peeling outcomes and healing responses.

Lesson 2 • Skin Aging and Structural Changes

Distinguish intrinsic aging from photoaging at the cellular and structural level. Recognising these changes helps set realistic treatment goals for clients.

Lesson 3 • Fitzpatrick Skin Typing System

Apply the Fitzpatrick scale to classify phototypes I through VI. Accurate typing guides acid selection, concentration, and post-peel pigmentation risk.

Lesson 4 • Skin Barrier and Hydration

Analyse the lipid barrier, natural moisturising factors, and transepidermal water loss. Barrier integrity directly affects peel tolerance and recovery speed.

Lesson 1 • Beta-Hydroxy and Polyhydroxy Acids

Analyse salicylic acid's lipophilic nature and polyhydroxy acids' gentle exfoliation. These agents suit oily, acne-prone, and sensitive skin profiles.

Lesson 2 • Phenol and Combination Formulas

Examine phenol's deep dermal penetration and systemic absorption risks. Combination formulas like the Jessner solution are also analysed for synergistic effects.

Lesson 3 • Acid Stability and Formulation Science

Assess how pH, vehicle, and storage conditions affect acid potency. Proper formulation knowledge prevents unexpected reactions and ensures consistent results.

Lesson 4 • Trichloroacetic Acid Properties

Evaluate TCA's protein coagulation mechanism and concentration-dependent depth. Mastering TCA chemistry is essential before progressing to medium-depth peels.

Lesson 1 • Informed Consent and Documentation

Obtain written consent covering risks, benefits, and aftercare obligations. Thorough documentation protects both client and practitioner legally and ethically.

Lesson 2 • Medical and Skin History Intake

Gather medication use, medical conditions, prior treatments, and lifestyle factors. This history reveals contraindications and informs safe protocol design.

Lesson 3 • Skin Analysis Techniques

Use visual inspection, Wood's lamp, and magnification tools to assess skin condition. Objective analysis data guides acid choice and concentration selection.

Lesson 4 • Contraindications and Cautions

Identify absolute and relative contraindications including active infections, isotretinoin use, and pregnancy. Recognising these protects clients from preventable harm.

Lesson 1 • Sun Protection and Avoidance

Enforce strict broad-spectrum sun protection for at least two weeks pre-peel. UV exposure increases post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation risk in all skin types.

Lesson 2 • Day-of-Treatment Skin Preparation

Cleanse, degrease, and dry the skin immediately before acid application. Removing oils and residue ensures uniform acid contact and predictable penetration.

Lesson 3 • Skin Priming with Topical Agents

Apply retinoids, hydroquinone, and AHAs in the weeks before treatment to prime skin. Priming accelerates cell turnover, evens penetration, and reduces pigmentation risk.

Lesson 1 • Immediate Post-Peel Care

Apply barrier-supportive products and provide verbal and written aftercare instructions. Immediate care sets the foundation for smooth healing and optimal results.

Lesson 2 • Endpoint Recognition and Timing

Identify erythema, mild stinging, and superficial frosting as treatment endpoints. Accurate endpoint recognition prevents over-penetration and adverse reactions.

Lesson 3 • Application Tools and Techniques

Use gauze, brushes, and cotton-tipped applicators with consistent pressure and speed. Technique consistency prevents uneven penetration and patchy results.

Lesson 4 • Superficial Peel Agent Selection

Match AHAs, BHAs, and low-concentration TCA to specific skin concerns and types. Correct agent selection is the first step towards a predictable superficial peel outcome.

Lesson 1 • Post-Peel Wound Care Protocol

Guide clients through the peeling, crusting, and re-epithelialisation phases after medium peels. Structured wound care prevents infection, scarring, and pigmentation complications.

Lesson 2 • Application Sequence and Layering

Apply medium-depth agents in controlled layers with adequate intervals between passes. Layering technique determines final depth and reduces the risk of over-penetration.

Lesson 3 • Medium-Depth Agent Selection

Evaluate TCA 35–50%, Jessner-TCA, and glycolic-TCA combinations for medium-depth work. Agent choice depends on skin type, condition severity, and desired depth.

Lesson 4 • Frosting Levels and Depth Assessment

Distinguish frosting grades I, II, and III to gauge real-time penetration depth. Frosting assessment is the primary intraoperative safety tool for medium-depth peels.

Lesson 1 • Phenol Application Technique

Apply phenol in timed facial segments with mandatory rest intervals to limit systemic load. Segmental application is the primary technique for controlling absorption rate.

Lesson 2 • Deep Peel Recovery Management

Manage the extended healing process including oedema, crusting, and erythema lasting weeks. Recovery guidance must be detailed and proactive to prevent complications.

Lesson 3 • Cardiac and Systemic Monitoring

Implement continuous cardiac monitoring and IV hydration during phenol application. Systemic phenol absorption causes arrhythmia risk that requires real-time clinical oversight.

Lesson 4 • Complications Specific to Deep Peels

Recognise and respond to scarring, permanent hypopigmentation, and infection after deep peels. Early identification and intervention minimise long-term adverse outcomes.

Lesson 1 • Infection and Wound Complications

Identify bacterial, viral, and fungal infections that can complicate peel healing. Prompt recognition and treatment prevent scarring and systemic spread.

Lesson 2 • Classifying Peel Complications

Categorise complications as immediate, short-term, or long-term and by severity level. A clear classification framework guides triage and appropriate response speed.

Lesson 3 • Hyperpigmentation and Hypopigmentation

Distinguish post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from permanent depigmentation and treat each appropriately. Pigmentation complications are the most common adverse outcomes in peel practice.

Lesson 4 • Scarring Prevention and Treatment

Prevent hypertrophic scars and keloids through proper technique, depth control, and aftercare. Early intervention with silicone, steroids, or referral limits permanent disfigurement.