Medical articles
With phenol peeling, you will get amazing results and smooth, renewed skin
Medical articles
Reviewed by: Dr. Sally Ali Musa, Dermatology and Cosmetic Consultant

Do you suffer from annoying pigmentation or deep facial wrinkles?

What is phenol peeling?

Phenol chemical peel is a non-surgical cosmetic procedure and is considered one of the most powerful types of deep chemical peeling that is used in cosmetic clinics to completely improve the appearance and texture of the skin, especially in the case of wrinkles, deep lines, or severe effects of aging. It is one of the advanced cosmetic options because it causes a noticeable change in the texture of the skin, provided that it is done under complete medical supervision.

How does phenol peeling work on the skin?

Peeling with phenol removes the damaged superficial or outer layers of the skin. The phenol substance penetrates deeply into the skin and begins to break the bonds that unite the surface cells, leading to their gradual peeling. This process stimulates the skin to produce new, fresher and smoother cells, and also helps in the production of collagen between the deeper layers of the skin.

5 of the most important benefits of phenol peeling

Below we learn about 5 of the most important benefits of phenol peeling, which has proven its effectiveness in solving various skin problems such as:

1. Treating wrinkles and deep lines

Phenol helps reduce and treat wrinkles, especially around the eyes, forehead, and mouth. It is one of the most powerful exfoliating materials that treat signs of aging and deep expression lines.

2. Treating acne and scars

This peeling is very effective in treating acne and its annoying effects and improving the appearance of deep scars resulting from old acne, because it gives the skin's surface freshness and smoothness.

3. Getting rid of pigmentation and unifying skin tone

Phenol reduces dark spots and pigmentation resulting from the sun or melasma. It also helps unify skin tone and make it more uniform.

4.Improve skin texture and cell regeneration

Exfoliation helps improve the skin's texture by removing the dead or damaged layer of skin and stimulating the growth of new, healthier, fresher cells. 

5. Stimulate collagen production 

Facial peeling with phenol helps activate and stimulate collagen production in the deeper layers of the skin, which helps tighten the skin and make it more elastic. 

Learn about: Body exfoliation I secrets to get real beauty

Preparing for a phenol peeling session

Before preparing for a phenol peeling session, the dermatologist conducts a comprehensive medical examination to evaluate the skin type and the problem you are facing, making sure that there is nothing preventing the session from being performed, such as skin diseases. Then the preparation is done as follows:

Skin preparation:

The doctor orders the use of some preparatory creams containing hydroquinone or retinoid a month before the session to make the absorption more balanced.

Stop smoking:

The doctor advises you to completely stop smoking at least two weeks before the session so as not to slow down the recovery process after peeling.

Taking preventive medications: 


Such as antivirals, especially for those with a history of herpes, or antibiotics to reduce the risk of infections and bacterial infections.

Preparing the day of the session: 


The woman should come without any makeup on the face or skin creams, avoid wearing jewelry on the face and neck, and preferably eat a very light meal before the session.

Preparing the skin before peeling:

The doctor sterilizes and disinfects the skin using a disinfectant solution designated for the face to remove any impurities or dirt from the face, then applies a local anesthetic to reduce the burning sensation during the session.


In the dermatology and cosmetic clinics at Al-Mousa Specialist Hospital, there are complete medical preparations. From the first moment, we care about providing the best medical care in accordance with international safety standards through the most skilled and best dermatologists and cosmetic doctors in Al-Ahsa, and using approved medical materials that are authorized for use to achieve the best long-lasting results.

What to expect during a peel session

Some symptoms are expected to occur during a peeling session, which are completely normal and can be dealt with immediately, and they are:

  1. Burning feeling: The girl or woman may feel some burning or stinging during the session, and here the doctor deals with it by applying more local anesthetic and using cold compresses to reduce the sensation.
  2. Tightening and hardening of the skin: You may feel some hardening or stiffness in the facial skin due to the interaction of the acid with the deep layer of the skin. This is normal and is followed up with the doctor during and after the session until it disappears completely.
  3. Skin color changes during the session: The skin may turn gray during the session, which is also normal and a sign of the effect and effectiveness of the peeling.
  4. Anxiety and tension: Some women feel very nervous and anxious during the session, so reassurance must be provided and what happens in the session must be explained and that it is normal. In some cases, the doctor may use a sedative to administer the session.

Phenol peeling

The most important tips after a peeling session

Dermatologists at Al Mousa Specialist Hospital recommend following the tips and instructions that preserve your skin after the session to achieve the best result, the most important of which are:

  1. Avoid exposure to direct sunlight for a month.
  2. Don't forget to use SPF 50+ sunscreen when you go out.
  3. Do not remove skin flakes by hand so as not to cause skin infections.
  4. Avoid strenuous exercise or activities for a week after the session to prevent excessive sweating.
  5. Keep taking medications and use medicated creams prescribed by your doctor. 
  6. Sleep on your back with a comfortable pillow to raise your head to prevent any friction of your face during sleep.
  7. Drink plenty of water, up to 2 liters per day, to keep the body and skin constantly hydrated.
  8. Do not try any new skin product for at least a month so as not to cause adverse results with exfoliation. 
  9. You should refrain from using any scrubs, perfumes, or facial cosmetics for two weeks. 
  10. Monitor for any abnormal signs such as noticeable inflammation or infection and follow up with your doctor periodically.

Book your consultation now at مركز الجلدية والتجميل At Al Mousa Specialist Hospital.

Recovery period after phenol peeling

The recovery period after phenol peeling is divided into 4 stages starting from the first week after the session, which are as follows:

1. The first week after the session

Skin redness and swelling appear immediately after the session. These are normal symptoms, with a thick crust forming on the skin and then gradually falling off. During this period, we advise you to stay at home and avoid exposure to the sun.

2. The second and third weeks

The peeling on the skin begins to disappear, then new skin cells appear, but the skin is still thin and cannot tolerate sunlight or pollutants, and redness decreases and appears  like a sunburn.

3. Week four to eight

At this stage, the redness of the face decreases greatly, the texture of the skin’s elasticity improves greatly, and the difference in the color and freshness of the face appears, and here you can start using moisturizing products.

4. Stage from 8 to 12 weeks

This stage witnesses a noticeable stabilization of the skin and the final results begin to appear. The skin gradually returns to its natural color and appearance, with a clear improvement and freshness in the face being noted.

Expected results from phenol peeling

The most distinctive feature of phenol peeling is that its results last for years and it does not require repeated sessions often. It is an effective option for those looking for a final solution to skin problems. The most prominent results expected from the session are:

  • Deep wrinkles disappear significantly and there is a noticeable improvement.
  • Lighten skin tone and permanently get rid of dark spots.
  • Silky smooth texture with increased skin elasticity.
  • Tight, smooth skin like a baby's skin.
  • The disappearance of scars and acne.
  • A radical transformation in the appearance of the skin.

Frequently asked questions

Below we answer the most common questions we receive from our followers:

How long does phenol peeling take?

The session may take from one hour to an hour and a half at most, depending on the area of ​​the treated area. Preparing the skin before the session may take weeks until it is ready for peeling.

What are the harmful effects of phenol on the skin?

The effects of phenol on the skin may appear in some rare cases, such as severe redness, swelling, and dry skin. Without choosing a specialist, peeling with phenol may lead to a permanent change in skin color or the appearance of scars.

When does the skin return to normal after peeling?

The skin returns to normal within one to two months after peeling, which is a variable period from one case to another. As for the final improvement and disappearance of redness, it may take 3 months.

To begin phenol peeling sessions, contact the dermatology and beauty clinics at Al Mousa Specialist Hospital through the numbers shown, our website, or the Al Mousa application and get the best medical service in Al-Ahsa at the hands of specialized dermatology and beauty experts. Enter the world of beauty with Al Mousa Specialist Hospital.

Phenol peeling – muggenthaler

What You Should Know About Phenol Peels – webmd

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