What type of chemical peel primarily affects only the epidermis?

A superficial chemical peel primarily affects only the epidermis, which is the outermost layer of the skin. This type of peel typically involves milder acids, such as alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), that help in exfoliating the skin’s surface, promoting cell turnover, and improving overall skin texture and tone.

The primary goal of a superficial chemical peel is to address minor skin issues such as superficial fine lines, uneven skin tone, and mild acne. Since it targets only the epidermis, recovery time is usually minimal, and any side effects are generally mild compared to deeper peels.

Other types of peels, such as medium and deep chemical peels, penetrate further into the skin layers—into the dermis—resulting in more significant skin changes but also requiring a longer recovery period. An exfoliating chemical peel is often seen as a general term and may not specify the depth of penetration, making it less precise compared to the defined effects of a superficial peel.