A EFICÁCIA DO PEELING QUÍMICO COM ÁCIDO RETINÓICO NO FOTOENVELHECIMENTO: REVISÃO INTEGRATIVA

ABSTRACT Introduction: Photoaging is a phenomenon that occurs due to environmental factors, age, skin type, and primarily sun exposure. As a result, the skin structure is affected, leading to a reduction in collagen and alterations in elastic fibers, which contribute to the appearance of wrinkles and dark spots. Several aesthetic treatments are available to address photoaging, among which retinoic acid chemical peeling stands out. Objective: To analyze the effectiveness of retinoic acid chemical peeling in reversing the effects of photoaging, analyzing improvements in skin appearance. Methods: The research was carried out based on the techniques and methods of bibliographic research, consisting of the collection of sources from the following scientific platforms: National Library of Medicine (PubMed), Google Scholar and Virtual Health Library (BVS). Only complete articles, with free access, published between 2015 and 2025, in English and Portuguese, that directly addressed the efficacy of retinoic acid in the treatment of photoaging were included in the selection. Review articles, duplicates, incomplete articles or those that did not specifically address the proposed topic were excluded. Results: After identifying the scientific data based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria, and reading the titles and abstracts, 4 articles were counted for analysis and preparation of the review. Conclusion: This study concluded that chemical peeling with retinoic acid proved to be effective and safe in the treatment of photoaging, improving skin texture, firmness and color. Concentrations of 3% to 5% were effective, with aesthetic and therapeutic benefits. Individualized assessment and performance by qualified professionals are essential to ensure good results. Keywords: Photoaging. Retinoic acid. Chemical peeling.