Chemical Peels for Youthful Hands: An Advanced Approach to Combat Hand Ageing

Hand ageing is a concern for many individuals seeking to maintain a youthful appearance. Unlike the face, the hands are often neglected in skincare routines, leading to visible signs of ageing, crepiness, and dullness of the skin. In this article, we will go through the effectiveness of combined chemical peels in treating hand ageing, highlighting the latest research and expert insights.

Hand ageing is a multifaceted process influenced by both intrinsic and extrinsic factors. As we age, our hands undergo a variety of changes that can reveal our true age, even if our faces remain youthful. Unlike facial skin, which often receives more attention and care, the hands are frequently exposed to environmental stressors and can exhibit significant signs of ageing. Here are the primary aspects of hand ageing:

• Wrinkles: The development of fine lines and wrinkles is a hallmark of ageing skin. On the hands, these wrinkles result from the gradual loss of collagen and elastin, the proteins responsible for skin elasticity and firmness. Repeated movements and sun exposure further exacerbate the formation of these lines.
• Pigmentation Changes: Over time, prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays can lead to the appearance of age spots, also known as liver spots or solar lentigines. These hyperpigmented areas are more prominent on the dorsal (back) side of the hands and are a common sign of photodamage.
• Dermal Atrophy: Ageing skin often experiences dermal atrophy, where the skin becomes thinner and more translucent. This thinning is due to a decrease in the production of vital skin components like collagen and hyaluronic acid, leading to a more fragile and less resilient skin structure.
• Enlarged Reticular Veins: As the skin thins and loses volume with age, the underlying structures, such as veins, become more visible. Enlarged reticular veins on the hands can contribute to an aged appearance, making the hands look more skeletal and less vibrant.

Understanding these aspects of hand ageing is crucial for selecting appropriate treatments. By addressing wrinkles, pigmentation changes, dermal atrophy, and prominent veins, comprehensive hand rejuvenation can be achieved, enhancing both the aesthetic appearance and overall health of the skin.

Chemical peels have become a popular solution for rejuvenating the skin. They work by exfoliating the outer layers, promoting cell turnover, and stimulating collagen production. This process helps to diminish wrinkles, reduce pigmentation, and improve skin texture.

Two primary types of chemical peels are often used for hand rejuvenation:

• Glycolic Acid (GA): A popular alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) known for its ability to exfoliate the skin, reduce wrinkles, and improve skin texture.
• Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA): A stronger peeling agent that penetrates deeper into the skin, effectively treating pigmentation and stimulating collagen production.

A recent study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of a combined chemical peeling strategy in treating hand ageing. The study involved 69 patients aged between 20 to 69 years, who received treatments on both hands:

1. One hand was treated with 20% glycolic acid (GA).
2. The other hand was treated with a combination of 20% GA and 15% trichloroacetic acid (TCA).

Photographic evaluations and dermoscopic assessments were performed at baseline and at multiple follow-up intervals (weeks 2, 5, 8, and 11). Patients also rated their tolerance and satisfaction with the treatment.

The Results

Both treatment modalities demonstrated statistically significant improvements in various aspects of hand ageing:

• Dorsal Hand Wrinkles: Both treatments improved the appearance of wrinkles, but the combination therapy showed slightly superior results.
• Pigmentation Density: There was a marked reduction in pigmentation density in both groups, with the combination treatment yielding better outcomes.
• Merz Hand Grading Scale (MHGS): This scale evaluates the overall appearance of the dorsal hand, with noticeable improvements recorded for both treatments. The most compelling evidence emerged concerning pigmentation intensity. Hands treated with the combination of GA and TCA exhibited a statistically significant decrease in pigmentation intensity compared to those treated with GA alone.

Interestingly, patient tolerance and satisfaction levels were comparable across both treatments. Participants reported a gradual increase in satisfaction as they progressed through the treatment, indicating a positive experience regardless of the specific peel used.

The findings from this study underscore the advantages of using a combination of glycolic acid and trichloroacetic acid for treating hand ageing. While glycolic acid alone is effective, the addition of TCA enhances the treatment’s efficacy, particularly in reducing pigmentation and improving the overall appearance of the hands.

As experts in dermatology and plastic surgery, we recognise the importance of addressing hand ageing not just for aesthetic reasons but also for enhancing patients’ quality of life. Hands are often a telltale sign of age, and rejuvenating their appearance can significantly improve self-confidence.

By incorporating advanced treatment strategies such as combined chemical peels, we can offer our patients the best possible outcomes, ensuring their hands reflect the same youthful vitality as their faces.

If you’re concerned about the signs of ageing on your hands, consider exploring our advanced treatments such as chemical peels, dermal fillers, skin boosters, PRP Therapy, Morpheus8, and Exilis Elite Radio Frequency at Elite Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery Group. Our skincare specialist is dedicated to helping you achieve the best possible results with personalised care, correct treatment planning and technique. Contact us today to schedule an initial thorough consultation and take the first step toward youthful, rejuvenated hands.

For details about procedures and treatments or for a consultation, advice and prices from our Dubai clinic please call +971 4 431 2396 or use our ONLINE FORM.