Chemical Peeling: Indications, Side-Effects and Outcome among Patients at a Private Clinic in Port Harcourt

Background: Chemical peeling is a technique that aims to achieve rejuvenation of the skin by application of chemical peels. The technique dates back to several decades, yet little is known about the indication, side-effects and outcome among a Nigerian population.

Purpose: The aim of the study was to assess the type of chemical peels, their indication, side –effects and outcome among patients at a private dermatology clinic.

Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective study, which employed a pro forma to obtain data required to attain the objectives. Data were obtained from all patients who underwent chemical peeling. Chi square and student t test were determined at a statistically significant level of 0.05.

Results: The study had a total of twenty-seven patients, comprising of 7 (25.9%) males, and 20 (74.1%) females, who underwent chemical peeling. Superficial chemical peel was the most dominant peel method (81.5%). Among the superficial peel, mandelic peel, salicylic peel and glycolic peel were commonly. Five of the patients (18.5%) received medium depth, and none (0%) received deep chemical peel. The most frequent indication among the patients in the study was Acne Vulgaris (55.6%), followed by Melasma (14.8%). The comparison of treatment outcome on clinical improvement by age, sex and category of chemical peel revealed no significant differences. Two of the patients reported side-effects (7.4%) namely skin dryness and hyperpigmentation.

Conclusion: Chemical peeling among Nigerian population has few side-effects and is effective. Acne is the most common indication for chemical peel. There is a need for further studies employing analytic study designs and involving a larger population.