Why does only acetone help chemical peels for my skin?

Question

i notice on my skin when they use isoprpyl or anything else the peel isnt as effective even if i have a hot shower before going to the spa, but when they use acetone it is amazing, the peels just sink right in and do their job, is it all in my head or is it oily / thickened sun damaged skin ?

Kirk Moore, MD · Answer

The use of acetone should always be incorporated into the chemical peel treatment. It allows your skin to fully degrease so that the peel can drive deeper into the skin and become more effective. If you are using isopropyl it will still clean the skin but not fully degrease it so the peel might not drive as deep and not be as effective. Best wishes!

Sacha Obaid, MD · Answer

It is important to use acetone before a peel because it removes all the oil so that the acid can penetrate deeper in the skin.

Cory S. Goldberg, BSc, MD, FRCS(C) · Answer

The best skin preparation for a chemical peel is first isopropyl alcohol and then acetone. They both degrease the skin, but acetone can remove more. However, it works best after the alcohol cleanse. Then, the peel is more effective.

Why does only acetone help chemical peels for my skin?

Answers (3)