Chemical peels

Chemical peels are cosmetic procedures used to improve the appearance and texture of the skin. During a chemical peel, a chemical solution is applied to the skin, which causes the outermost layer of skin to peel off. This process helps to remove damaged or dead skin cells and promotes the growth of new, healthier skin.

Based on the concept that the skin naturally undergoes a healing process when damaged, chemical peels play a pivotal role in skin rejuvenation.

Whether you're seeking to enhance your skin's radiance, rejuvenate your skin, maintain its health, or address various skin concerns, chemical peels invariably stand out as the primary solution.

• What is a chemical peel?

  A chemical peel is a procedure that involves the application of an acid solution to enhance the quality of the skin, primarily on the face, neck, or hands. The chemical solution applied to the skin triggers exfoliation, eventually leading to the shedding of the outer layer of skin, which paves the way for the generation of new skin.

  The newly regenerated skin typically exhibits a smoother and less wrinkled appearance compared to the older skin, as it results from the regenerative process of the underlying tissues. Commonly used chemicals for chemical peeling include Alpha Hydroxy acids (AHA), Trichloroacetic acid (TCA), or phenol.

• Types of Chemical Peels

  Chemical peels can be broadly categorized into three main types:

  • Superficial Peels : These peels primarily employ Alpha Hydroxy Acids or other gentle acids that can penetrate only the outermost layer of the skin. Superficial peels work by delicately exfoliating the skin's surface, leading to improvements in mild cases of skin discoloration and rough skin texture.
  • Medium Peels : Utilizing Glycolic or Trichloroacetic Acid, medium peels can reach the middle layers of the skin to eliminate damaged skin cells. This treatment is effective in reducing the appearance of age spots, fine lines, wrinkles, freckles, and addressing moderate skin discoloration.
  • Deep Peels : Deep peels involve the application of stronger concentrations of Trichloroacetic acid or phenol, enabling them to penetrate deeply beyond the middle skin layer to remove damaged cells. This treatment is particularly effective for addressing moderate lines, freckles, and shallow scars.
• What Purpose does a Chemical Peel Solve?

  A Chemical Peel serves various purposes, including:

  1. Diminishing fine lines and wrinkles.
  2. Eliminating dead skin cells.
  3. Smoothing rough skin texture.
  4. Enhancing skin hydration.
  5. Softening the skin and minimizing open pores.
  6. Lightening pigmentation and dark spots.
  7. Diminishing the visibility of acne scars.
  8. Reducing and drying out active acne.
  9. Exfoliating razor bumps.
  10. Minimizing ingrown hair.
  11. Facilitating the effectiveness of homecare programs by allowing deeper penetration of active products.
• Are you the Right Candidate for Chemical Peels?

  Typically, Chemical Peels are most effective for individuals with lighter skin tones. However, individuals with any of the following conditions should consider avoiding a chemical peel:

  • Pregnancy or recent nursing.
  • Use of Accutane in the past six months.
  • Existing conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, dermatitis, or rosacea, as well as open wounds, sunburn, or active Herpes simplex 1 sores.
  • Recent use (within the past 48 hours) of Retin-A, Renova, prescription skincare products containing ascorbic acid, bleaching agents, skin lightening agents, or other acid-based products.
• Things to keep in mind about Chemical Peels Procedure

  Pre Procedure Instructions

  • It is not recommended to undergo a chemical peel on recently sun-exposed or tanned skin. A minimum of two weeks should pass between UV exposure (either natural sunlight or tanning booth) and the peel.
  • Refrain from scrubbing, exfoliating, or using peeling products like AHA's (Glycolic acid) on your skin for at least three days before a chemical peel, unless otherwise advised by your practitioner as part of your skincare regimen.
  • If you are seeking to address pigmentation issues or as a precautionary measure, your practitioner may recommend using a pigment-suppressing product along with Retinoids for two to six weeks before the peel. These products help prepare your skin and minimize the risk of adverse reactions.
  • Avoid receiving facial fillers or Botox treatments for a minimum of two weeks before undergoing a chemical peel.
  • Do not undergo any laser or heat treatments for at least three days before your scheduled chemical peel.

  During the Procedure

  • Typically, you may experience a stinging or itching sensation during the procedure, which is considered normal and not discomforting. This sensation serves as an indicator that the procedure is active.
  • The applied acid is usually neutralized using water or sodium bicarbonate, imparting a cooling sensation to the skin and alleviating any itchiness.

  Post-Procedure Instructions

  • Superficial peels typically require one to seven days for healing. The treated skin initially appears red and may develop slight scaling. Adequate moisturization is essential, and daily application of sunscreen is recommended. Makeup can be applied the day after the peel.
  • Medium peels necessitate seven to 14 days for healing. The skin may become red, swollen, and may start to crust and peel during this period. Swelling of the eyelids and occasional blistering may occur, which are natural responses. Follow your dermatologist's advice for daily soaking and ointment application. Antiviral medications may be prescribed for up to 14 days post-procedure. Avoid sun exposure until the healing process is complete. Camouflage makeup can be used after one week, but regular follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor progress.
  • Deep peels generally require 14 to 21 days to heal. The treated area is typically bandaged to prevent foreign particle contact. The skin should be soaked four to six times daily, followed by the application of prescribed ointments. A thick layer of moisturizer should also be applied for up to three weeks following the procedure. Sun exposure should be completely avoided for three to six months after treatment. Camouflage makeup may be applied after two weeks, but ongoing monitoring is essential to track your progress.
• Before you go for a Chemical Peel
  • Even though both Microdermabrasion and acid peels can be used on tanned skin, it's not advisable to have a skin peel if your skin has recently been exposed to intense UV rays. It's recommended to wait for at least two weeks between UV exposure, whether from natural sunlight or a tanning booth, and your scheduled skin treatment.
  • Refrain from scrubbing, exfoliating, or using peeling products like AHA's (Glycolic acid) on your skin for a minimum of three days before a chemical peel, unless otherwise advised by your practitioner as part of your personalized skincare regimen.
  • If your goal is to address pigmentation issues or as a general precaution, you may be asked to use a pigment-suppressing product for two to six weeks before undergoing the skin peel, in conjunction with Retinoids. These products play a crucial role in preparing your skin to minimize the risk of adverse reactions.
  • Avoid receiving facial fillers or Botox treatments for at least two weeks before scheduling an acid peel.
  • Additionally, do not undergo any laser or heat treatments for at least three days before your planned chemical peel.
• During your Chemical Peel routine

  Typically, you may encounter a sensation of stinging or itching, although it is not considered uncomfortable. Instead, this mild itch or sting serves as an indicator that the procedure is actively working.

  After this sensation diminishes, the applied acid is neutralized, typically using either water or sodium bicarbonate. This process imparts a refreshing, cooling sensation to the skin, effectively alleviating any residual itchiness.

• After care instructions for Chemical Peel Candidates
  • Superficial peels typically entail a healing period of one to seven days. Initially, the treated skin may appear red and may exhibit some scaling. Adequate moisturization is recommended, and it's essential to apply sunscreen daily. Makeup can be safely applied starting the day after the procedure.
  • Medium peels necessitate a recovery period of seven to 14 days. Similar to superficial peels, the skin may become red and experience swelling. Crusting and peeling of the skin occur within this timeframe. Swelling of the eyelids and occasional blistering may occur, which is a natural response. Following your dermatologist's guidance, daily soaking of the skin and the application of ointments are required. Antiviral medications should be taken for up to 14 days post-procedure. Avoid all sun exposure until the healing process is complete. Camouflage makeup can be applied after one week, but it is crucial to schedule a follow-up appointment to monitor your progress.
  • Deep peels typically require 14 to 21 days to fully heal. The treated area is typically bandaged to prevent contact with foreign particles. The skin should be soaked four to six times daily, followed by the application of ointments as prescribed by your dermatologist. For up to three weeks after the treatment, it's important to apply a thick layer of moisturizer. Sun exposure should be completely avoided for three to six months following the treatment. Camouflage makeup may be applied after two weeks.
• Chemical Peels vs. Microdermabrasion

  These two procedures, Chemical Peels and Microdermabrasion, aim to achieve similar outcomes but employ distinct methods.

  Chemical Peels involve the use of chemicals applied externally to act from beneath the skin's surface, while Microdermabrasion physically removes surface layers to promote healing.

  It's important to note that deep peels typically yield more noticeable results compared to microdermabrasion. However, Microdermabrasion offers the advantage of shorter recovery times, making it a convenient choice for busy professionals. Additionally, unlike microdermabrasion, deep chemical peels can alter the skin's pigmentation through bleaching. As a result, individuals with naturally darker skin tones may find microdermabrasion to be a more suitable option.

• Chemical Peels vs. Laser Skin Resurfacing

  Assessing the advantages and disadvantages of laser skin resurfacing in comparison to chemical peels can be somewhat challenging, primarily because laser resurfacing is a relatively newer procedure. Nevertheless, numerous medical professionals assert that the skin enhancements achieved through laser skin resurfacing are essentially on par with those observed in chemical peels and microdermabrasion.

• Risks and Side Effects
  • Individuals with sensitive skin may notice slight discoloration, but this typically improves over time.
  • When not performed correctly, chemical peels can result in scarring, highlighting the crucial role of the dermatologist's or therapist's expertise.