Chemical Peels for Better Skin
During this cosmetic treatment, a skincare specialist applies a chemical solution to the skin causing it to blister and peel. This popular treatment exposes a new layer of skin and an improved complexion.
What is a chemical peel?
There are different types of chemical peels, based on how deep the chemical soaks in and what type of chemical is used. Things that may affect the depth of a peel include: the strength of the acid in the peeling agent, the number of coats that are applied, and the amount of time before the acid is neutralized.
Deeper peels give more dramatic results, but they may also have higher risks, cause more pain, and have a longer healing time.
Which type of chemical peel is right for me?
These treatments can vary in type and intensity. Your doctor can help you decide the depth of the desired peel and what type of chemical is best for you.
This decision is based on your skin type, which areas you want peeled, what kind of results you want, how much risk you are willing to take, and other things.
Your dermatologist might perform a chemical peel on a small “test spot” first to get a better idea of the results, especially for people who have darker skin.
Are there any preparations before a chemical peel?
Your dermatologist will recommend a skincare routine 2-3 weeks to ensure a more uniform peel and a faster healing period.
It may also reduce the chance of infection and other problems, especially uneven color changes in the skin.
In some cases, daily use of tretinoin (Retin-A) is also suggested. This is a medicine you apply to your skin. It is most often used to treat acne, but it may speed healing after a peel.
Are chemical peels safe?
With most chemical peels, adverse reactions are rare, but can include scarring, numbness, and infection. Following mild to medium peels, patients can expect some relatively common chemical peel side effects, such as mild irritation, redness, and peeling.
In rare cases deep peels using phenol can cause more severe problems during treatment.
As with any medical procedure, it is best to consult with a trained dermatologist. Contact the knowledgeable and friendly staff at our Elizabethtown location to book with a board certified dermatologist to find out if chemical peel treatments can help improve your skin’s appearance!