CHEMICAL PEELS
All you need to know about Chemical Peels
What are Chemical Peels?
Chemical peels are a skincare treatment that involves applying a chemical solution to the skin to exfoliate and remove dead skin cells. This process promotes cell turnover, revealing smoother, more youthful-looking skin.
Benefits of having a chemical peel treatment
There are numerous benefits of chemical peels, including improved skin texture, reduced fine lines and wrinkles, diminished acne scars and hyperpigmentation, and a brighter complexion. Skin peels are particularly effective for clearing acne breakouts, reducing hyper-pigmentation (caused by sun damage) or combatting the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
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How can a chemical peel treatment help with?
Chemical peels are helpful to the skin to achieve…
- Enhance the complexion of the skin
- Refresh skin that appears lacklustre
- Renew and illuminate the skin
- Minimise the visibility of wrinkles and fine lines
- Make the skin softer and more supple
- Diminish the impact of sun exposure & lighten skin discolouration
- Aid in managing acne flare-ups and lessen redness
- Boost collagen synthesis for fuller, younger looking skin
Are chemical peels good for your skin?
Chemical peels can be beneficial for your skin when performed by a qualified skincare professional. They are designed to exfoliate the outer layers of the skin, promoting cell turnover and revealing smoother, more radiant skin underneath. They can help improve various skin concerns such as acne, hyperpigmentation, fine lines, and uneven texture. However, it’s essential to undergo a consultation with a skincare specialist to determine if chemical peels are suitable for your skin type and concerns.
What are the 5 disadvantages of a Chemical Peel?
While generally safe, a chemical peel may not be suitable for everyone. Potential disadvantages include:
Temporary redness, swelling, or irritation following the treatment.
Sensitivity to sunlight, requiring diligent sun protection during the healing process.
Risk of adverse reactions or complications if the peel is performed incorrectly or on unsuitable candidates.
Possible downtime depending on the depth of the peel, with deeper peels requiring more recovery time.
- Allergic reaction or irritation possibility due to the chemicals used, which could lead to redness, itching or swelling in sensitive individuals.
What types of chemical peels are there?
There are various types of chemical peels available, categorised based on the depth of penetration and the active ingredients used. We will take a look at 3 common types of chemical peels
– Superficial peels: These peels use mild acids such as alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) to exfoliate the outermost layer of the skin.
– Medium-depth peels: These peels penetrate deeper into the skin, targeting the epidermis and upper dermis with stronger acids like glycolic acid or trichloroacetic acid (TCA).
– Deep peels: These peels penetrate the deepest layers of the skin, reaching the mid to lower dermis with potent acids like phenol.
How often are treatments?
The frequency of a chemical peel does depend on several factors including the type of peel, the individuals skin type, the specific skin concerrns being address and the advice of the skincare professional carrying out the treatment. Here is a general guideline on frequency for the different types of chemical peels:
- Superficial Peels > every 4-6 weeks – they are the mildest form of chemical peels and thus can be performed more frequently. These are suitable for improving skin texture or treat minor imperfections.
- Medium Depth Peels > 3-6 months – these penetrate deeper into the skin and require a longer recovery time. They are used to treat more significant skin issue, such as deeper wrinkles & scars.
- Deep Peels > single treatment – this type offer dramatic results, lasting many years due to their intensity & significant recovery time required.
Personalised Treatment Plans – consulting with your skin care professional is essential to assess your skin and create a tailored plan, in alignment with your skin condition, goals and lifestyle.
What care is required after treatment?
After undergoing a chemical peel, it’s essential to follow post-treatment care instructions provided by your skincare professional. Some general care guidelines may include:
– Avoiding sun exposure and wearing sunscreen daily to protect the skin from UV damage.
– Using gentle skincare products and avoiding harsh exfoliants or abrasive treatments.
– Moisturizing the skin regularly to maintain hydration and promote healing.
– Refraining from picking or scratching at the treated area to prevent irritation or scarring.
Chemical Peel Treatment FAQ
Before your first chemical peel session, discontinue the use of tanning beds at least two weeks beforehand and avoid sun exposure. Inform your skincare professional about any existing skin conditions or medications.
Having clean skin is essential. Arrive at your appointment with clean skin, free of make-up, moisturisers or sunscreen. Wear comfortable clothing and perhaps wear a buttoned shirt to avoid rubbing your face when changing later.
Depending on the type of peel selected, the solution is carefully applied to your skin with a brush, gauze or cotton pad. For superficial peels, you might feel a mild tingling or warm sensation as it works on your skin. For Medium Peels, a burning or stinging sensation may be felt until the solution is neutralised. Deep peels are the most intense and often require sedation or local anaesthesia. Thus making it significantly more uncomfortable but your skin care professional will provide pain management. Discuss this in more detail with your practitioner who will be able to provide you with a full run down of expectations.
Whilst it can be beneficial for many individuals, there are certain groups who should avoid it, for example – sensitive skin, history of allergic reactions to the ingredients of chemical peels; Pregnant or Breastfeeding women; those who may have active skin infections such as cold sores, open wounds; Patients with a history of keloid scarring or abnormal wound healing; people using certain medications or undergoing medical treatments that make the skin more sensitive or prone to complications; or recent laser treatment.
While chemical peels are generally safe when performed by trained professionals, they may be associated with some side effects, particularly with deeper or more aggressive peels. Potential side effects may include:
– Temporary redness, swelling, or irritation immediately following the treatment.
– Dryness, flaking, or peeling of the skin as it undergoes the exfoliation process.
– Sensitivity to sunlight and increased risk of sunburn or hyperpigmentation if adequate sun protection is not maintained.
– Rarely, adverse reactions such as allergic reactions, infection, or scarring may occur, especially if the peel is performed incorrectly or on unsuitable candidates.
Conclusion...
Chemical peels offer a safe and effective way to rejuvenate your skin and address a variety of common skincare concerns. By understanding the benefits, process, and aftercare of chemical peels, you can embark on your journey to radiant, youthful-looking skin with confidence.
