THE ENVIRON COOL PEEL®:

Effective and Safe Treatment for Photoaging

Challenges of Photoaging Treatment

Treating photoaging has always been challenging. People seek affordable treatments that work quickly with minimal downtime. Traditional skin peeling methods, while effective, often involve significant pain and recovery time. Historically, high-risk, low-pH peels were used without prior skin preparation, leading to complications such as hyper-pigmentation and insufficient collagen deposition.

Emergence of Environ Cool Peel® Technology

The Environ Cool Peel® Technology was developed to address dissatisfaction with aggressive peels like phenol and TCA. These traditional peels destroyed the skin’s epidermis and part of the dermis, leading to scarring and thinner skin. Environ’s approach in 1994 involved using low concentrations of acid in thicker formulations, such as gels or creams, to maintain control and reduce risks.

Innovative Approach and Benefits

Environ’s method involves using 2.5% TCA creams and gels without intense burning or frosting. Initial research showed significant skin tightening and smoothing with repeated treatments. An illustrative case involved a patient with photodamage who saw remarkable improvements in skin tightness and wrinkle reduction after six months of monthly treatments. The process, termed “Cool Peeling,” seems to stimulate the release of growth factors, promoting healthier skin growth and visible tightening.

Research and Findings

Environ’s in-house research involved trials with various acid concentrations and exposure times. Results indicated that longer exposure to low concentrations of acid yielded better outcomes than high concentrations. Weekly mild treatments over six weeks were more effective than a single intense treatment, leading to radiant, tighter skin with diminished pores and fine wrinkles.

Scientific Insights

While the exact mechanisms were initially unclear, recent research by Prof. Mani Srivastava in 2018 shed light on the role of the Early Growth Response (EGR) gene in skin regeneration. Although direct stimulation of the EGR gene by peels cannot be claimed, it is believed that growth factors like TGF-Beta-3 and IL10 play a crucial role in the observed skin improvements.

Environ Cool Peel® Protocol

The Cool Peel® process involves preparing the skin with thorough washing and an acid toner, followed by the application of 2.5% TCA cream or gel. Multiple layers can be applied with minimal discomfort. The peel is not washed off but wiped with a damp cloth before using Iontophoresis and Sonophoresis to enhance the penetration of selected serums. For optimal results, a combination of vitamin A, antioxidants, and peptides should be used both morning and evening.

Conclusion and Recommendations

A course of six weekly Cool Peels is recommended, ideally starting in winter and continuing with monthly maintenance. The treatment does not cause significant skin peeling and can be done from autumn through spring, avoiding summer. In recent research, over 95% of patients reported impressive results and would recommend the treatment to others.