Chemical peels are the third most popular minimally invasive cosmetic procedure in the United States. These versatile and effective treatments help address a variety of skin concerns without requiring general anesthesia or long recovery times.
If you have age spots, acne scars, or other skin conditions, chemical peels can promote skin rejuvenation to improve your skin’s health and the way you look. Read on to learn what chemical peels are and what the procedure is like.
What Are Chemical Peels?
Chemical peels are a type of cosmetic treatment used to improve the appearance and feel of skin. It is an exfoliating technique in which chemical solutions penetrate the skin’s surface, causing it to peel off. The skin underneath is smoother, has fewer wrinkles, and shows less damage.
Chemical peels can treat the following:
- Sun damage
- Wrinkles and fine lines
- Acne scars
- Hyperpigmentation
- Scars
- Melasma
- Uneven skin tone
There are various types of chemical peels, each one addressing different concerns. If you have never received a peel before, you might begin with a superficial peel that uses mild acid. As your skin adjusts to the acids, you can turn to stronger peels.
Lactic Acid Peels
Peels that use lactic acid are the mildest option. They lightly exfoliate, dissolving dead skin cells and clearing out toxins and debris while encouraging collagen production. Lactic acid peels can reduce the appearance of wrinkles and even out skin tone. A light chemical peel is an excellent acne treatment you can get every two to five weeks.
Glycolic Acid Peels
Glycolic acid peels help brighten your skin by removing dead cells that cause skin dullness. The glycolic acid in these peels is derived from natural fruit acids or man-made acids.
These medium chemical peels remove skin cells from the epidermis as well as the middle layer, or dermis. They are effective treatment options for acne scars, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone.
Salicylic Acid Peels
People who struggle with breakouts can benefit from salicylic acid peels. These deep exfoliating treatments soothe skin and can remove acne scars, but they are still mild enough to work for people who are not good candidates for other types of peels.
Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA) Peels
Trichloroacetic acid peels are medium to deep options ideal for those with mature skin conditions like sun damage and hyperpigmentation. At our clinic, we can layer these peels for deep penetration and maximum exfoliation.
Chemical Peel Benefits
Chemical peels offer acne treatment solutions such as diminishing scarring and preventing future breakouts. They also help minimize pores by removing the top layer of damaged skin.
Some other chemical peel benefits include addressing discoloration, hyperpigmentation, and sunspots. They do this by removing dead cells that can make your skin look dull while balancing texture for a more even appearance.
The Chemical Peel Procedure
The procedure begins with a consultation. We will work with you to choose the best peel option for your skin condition and your lifestyle. Let us know of any medication you take, any procedures you have undergone, and any allergies you have.
We advise you not to exfoliate for at least one week before the procedure, and you should watch for any exfoliating ingredients in your regular skincare products. To remove debris from your skin, avoid wearing makeup for a few days before the chemical peel.
You should also avoid the sun or wear strong sunblock. Because your skin can heal better when well hydrated, drink lots of water and avoid products that can dry it.
Before the procedure, we will clean your face and tie your hair back. We will also protect your eyes with gauze, tape, goggles, or an ointment. If the chemical peel is a deep one, we might also offer a mild sedative.
For a light chemical peel, we will apply the chemical solution with a brush, sponge, or cotton ball, covering the treatment area. We will then apply a neutralizing solution or wash to remove the chemicals.
The process is similar for a medium chemical peel, though we will not apply a neutralizing solution and instead use cold compresses to soothe the skin.
For a deep chemical peel, we will apply the chemical solution with a cotton-tipped applicator. The treated skin areas will begin to change color. We will usually perform the procedure in 15-minute intervals to limit your exposure to the acids.
After chemical peels, it is normal to have for skin to look redder or feel tighter. We will apply a protective ointment to soothe your skin, but we advise you not to be out in the sun and to avoid picking, scratching, or rubbing your skin. If the procedure was a mild one, you might be able to wear makeup the next day.
For medium peels, wait at least a week to wear makeup and use ice packs to soothe your skin. Over the days following the procedure, you may see a crust forming on your skin. It can take up to 14 days to see your results.
For deep chemical peels, we will apply a surgical dressing to the treated skin. We will show you how to apply ointment and how to soak the area. Use sunscreen every day.
Choose Chemical Peels for Healthier Skin
Whether you are searching for excellent acne treatment or for a way to give your skin a healthier glow, chemical peels can help. At Exclusively Radiant MedSpa, we offer every type of peel to ensure you get the results you want. Call us today to schedule your complimentary consultation and learn more about chemical peel benefits.
