Peeling with 30% Salicylic acid in the treatment of facial skin photoaging

Chemical peeling consists of the application of one or more chemical ablative agents to the surface of the skin to induce keratolysis or keratocoagulation, with subsequent regeneration, achieving improved texture and pigmentation. It is currently a popular tool in the dermatology therapeutic arsenal, however, few studies objectively evaluate its efficacy. Objective: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of the 30% salicylic acid peeling in the treatment of facial skin rejuvenation. Method: An observational, analytical and longitudinal study was carried out in 280 patients from two hospitals (Surgical Clinic: “Hermanos Ameijeiras” and General Teaching: “Enrique Cabrera”), in the period between January 2010 and January 2020. Treatment It was applied monthly for 6 months. The final evaluation was carried out 3 months after the end of the treatment. Results: 256 women and 24 men were treated with an average age of 34.2 (± 6.3) years. After treatment, there were significant changes in the Glogau Photo Damage Scale (P = 0.015), in the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (P = 0.023) and in the Lemperle Wrinkle Assessment Scale (P = 0.017). The adverse events found were burning, inflammation and scaling. The degree of satisfaction reported by the patients was good (6.4%) and very good (93.5%) (P = 0.001). Conclusions: The 30% salicylic acid peel proved to be effective and safe to reduce the signs of facial skin aging, associated with a high degree of patient satisfaction.