Do you ever wish you could trade in your old skin for skin that’s new, shiny and free of blemishes and wrinkles? While this isn’t possible (yet), there are ways you can make your skin like new again. Medicine and technology have advanced to the point where there are many non-invasive procedures that can take years off the way you look.
Chemical peels are one method. And they’re very effective. A chemical peel is when a chemical is applied to the skin and when removed, it takes away the very top layer of skin that is damaged from the sun, acne and aging; leaving a new layer that is smooth and improved.
A chemical peel can improve the following:
- Freckles
- Scars
- Signs of aging/liver spots
- Uneven skin pigmentation
- Sun-damaged skin
It should be noted that a peel can’t treat deep wrinkles or tight loose or sagging skin. Those problems will require more aggressive treatment like Botox and cosmetic surgery.
Types of chemical peels
There are 3 different types of chemical peels. Each one helps the person achieve a different result.
Light peel
These are sometimes referred to as a “lunchtime peel” because it’s something you can get done on your lunch hour with little to no discomfort. A light peel is done with glycolic, salicylic, or even fruit acid. It’s only left on the skin for a few minutes before being cleaned off.
A light peel is perfect for light acne scarring, wrinkles and blemishes. And because it isn’t overly harsh, this type of peel is safe for most skin types.
Medium peel
This peel uses the same chemicals as a light peel; the only difference is that it’s left on the skin longer and uses Trichloroacetic acid. Because of the longer duration and stronger acid formula, a medium peel will cause second-degree burns on the skin. Most patients can relieve the discomfort with over-the-counter pain medicine.
Further, because of the burn this peel causes, it takes longer for the effects to be seen – usually about 3-7 days after the treatment. The increased discomfort and longer recovery time are something one should consider before getting a medium peel.
Deep peel
Deep peels are when they bring out the strong acids, like phenol acid or TCA. This is done to treat deeper wrinkles, more severe scarring and sun damage and other unsightly skin conditions. The procedure usually lasts over an hour and patients may need to take pain relievers, sedatives or even general anesthesia. After the peel is finished, the skin will be red and swollen, and can even scab over. The recovery time is around two weeks for this procedure.
Always consult a professional
While chemical peels can have almost miraculous results on the skin, they can still be dangerous. Only a qualified professional should apply the peel and it’s recommended to see a dermatologist beforehand.
A chemical peel is a great way to regain smooth, shiny youthful looking skin. Call us today for a free consultation. We’ll help you find the right treatment for your skin based on your skin type, what you want to accomplish and what is safe for you.
