A depth-only classification assumes that the same peel reaches the same layer everywhere.
In real clinical practice, this assumption is anatomically false
and may become unsafe.
The same peel does not behave the same across the face
Facial skin thickness and barrier properties vary significantly by anatomical subunit.
As demonstrated in practical peel mapping approaches, a single acid formulation may act:
- Deeper on thin areas (e.g., eyelids, periorbital region)
- More superficial on thicker, more sebaceous areas (e.g., nasal tip)
- Heterogeneously within the same zone (e.g., crow’s feet with multiple thickness gradients)
Therefore, the labels “superficial”, “medium”, or “deep” cannot be treated as intrinsic
properties of a product. They are at best context-dependent outcomes.
Clinical safety point:
If practitioners rely on depth labels as if they were universal, they may unintentionally
over-treat thin regions or under-treat thick regions. This is one reason why a modern
peeling framework must incorporate anatomy + technique + formulation.
The Tenenbaum–Tiziani approach
Instead of classifying peels by a fixed “depth category”, we use a framework based on:
Chemistry
pKa profile, mono/di/tri-protic behavior, formulation design.
Modulation
pH as a variable; coats, contact time, repetition, buffering.
Anatomy
Zone-specific thickness gradients and barrier differences across the face.
This approach explains real-world outcomes and supports
safer, more predictable clinical protocols.
Educational note: This page provides scientific orientation and does not replace formal training,
clinical judgment, or individualized patient assessment.
