Phenol (carbolic acid) is commonly used in which type of treatments?

Phenol, also known as carbolic acid, is predominantly used in chemical peels due to its strong exfoliating properties. It is a powerful agent that penetrates deeply into the skin, effectively removing layers of damaged skin to reveal smoother, healthier skin beneath. Chemical peels involving phenol are typically used for more severe skin issues such as deep wrinkles, significant sun damage, and extensive hyperpigmentation.

The use of phenol in this context is beneficial because it not only promotes skin renewal but also stimulates collagen production, which is vital for maintaining skin elasticity and firmness. Its strength makes it essential for medical-grade chemical peels rather than cosmetic treatments like hydrating masks, exfoliating scrubs, or microdermabrasion, which are generally milder, focusing on superficial skin improvement. These alternative treatments serve different purposes; for example, hydrating masks aim to increase moisture levels in the skin, while microdermabrasion offers a less invasive approach by gently buffing the skin’s surface.