If you’re unfamiliar with chemical peels, the term itself could send you running in the other direction. It certainly doesn’t sound like something you’d want on your face, right? Wrong. Chemical peels are a great solution for a range of skin concerns, from wrinkles to acne to hyperpigmentation. So if you’re in search of a way to get brighter, clearer, more youthful-looking skin, a chemical peel could be the answer. Need more information before you commit? Take a look below at 7 skin benefits of chemical peels.
Keep in mind that not all chemical peels are the same. Some treat surface skin issues and others address concerns originating in the deeper layers of skin. You’ll want to consult a licensed practitioner to determine which type of chemical peel is best for you. Once you’ve determined the right one, prepare to love the results. A great chemical peel can:
1. Reduce fine lines and wrinkles
Chemical peels reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by removing the outer layer of your skin to reveal a new layer that is fresh, smooth, and unlined. Sometimes a light peel is sufficient for addressing surface wrinkles. Depending on your cosmetic goals, a moderate or deep peel may be a better solution.
2. Correct sun damage
Did you know that exposure to radiation from sunlight accounts for as much as 90% of the signs of premature aging? Fortunately, chemical peels can help repair and reverse the sun damage on the skin of your face, hands, neck, and chest. Getting serious about sun protection will help you keep your skin looking fresh and youthful long after your chemical peel treatment is over.
3. Improve acne
Studies have reported that chemical peels containing salicylic acid reduce acne by 47-75%, and 50-95% of patients saw their acne significantly improved with peels containing glycolic acid a well. Most chemical peels that treat acne are on the lighter side, as acne is typically a surface skin issue.
4. Diminish appearance of scars
Moderate chemical peels treat both surface acne and some light scarring by penetrating more deeply into the skin. For diminishing the appearance of more significant acne scars, a deeper peel is required. One clinical study found that a phenol peel reduced acne scars in 100% of participants, with the overall severity of the scars improved by a mean of 75.12%.
5. Address pigment issues
Chemical peels are excellent for correcting issues of pigmentation such as melasma, hyperpigmentation, and discoloration due to age spots and acne scars. They are effective on the face, hands, neck, and chest.
6. Enhance skin tone and texture
In addition to addressing your current skin issues, a chemical peel treatment also stimulates the growth of fresh, new skin. This rejuvenates the overall tone and texture of your skin, giving you a healthy, pretty glow.
7. Maximize the effectiveness of skincare products
Chemical peels remove the top layer of dead skin that stands between you and the maximum effect of your skincare products. Once the dead skin is gone, your products will absorb into your skin more fully, allowing the smallest amount of that expensive night cream to go a long way.
Our best chemical peel tips
- Before the procedure, it is normal to feel nervous-especially if this is your first time. Don’t worry. Everyone in the office will be there to make sure you feel super comfortable before the procedure starts.
- After a chemical peel, you can expect your skin to continue peeling for a week. Don’t panic; this is normal. Don’t pull any skin off. We know it can be tempting! But leave the skin intact and allow it to fall off by itself.
- If you do pull off any skin, it can cause scarring and hyperpigmentation. This is another reason to leave the peeling skin alone.
- Use a gentle cleanser after a chemical peel. Because your skin is fragile after a chemical peel, this tip is important so you don’t damage your skin.
- After your chemical peel, we highly recommend using a hydrating gel or moisturizer which contains hyaluronic acid or ceramides. Both of these ingredients boost the ability of your body to generate brand new skin cells that will give you the fresh look you want. our Hydrating B5 Gel is excellent for this purpose.
- Make sure to continue wearing sunscreen during this period. Our recommendation would be to avoid the sun for a few days after your chemical peel. But we also know this is not always practical. Thus, make sure you are wearing sunscreen, hats and other protective clothing if you’ll be out in the sun.
- You might experience some swelling after a chemical peel. This is normal and not everyone experiences it. However, if you do, you can use a product like our Phyto Corrective Gel to help with the swelling.
- Get enough sleep. Beauty sleep is not a thing of fairy tales. When you get enough sleep, you reduce inflammation and stress; both of which have a negative impact on your skin. Getting enough sleep will help you get adequate rest so that your body can produce new skin cells.
