Smooth skin not only looks great, but it makes you feel better about yourself. With the use of chemical peels, achieving that is even easier. Chemical peels are a cosmetic treatment geared towards achieving smooth, clear, taut skin. They remove layers of dead and damaged skin cells and can treat various skin imperfections like acne, scarring, hyperpigmentation, and more.
Like many other skin products, choosing the right chemical peel for your skin is important. Here you’ll learn all about chemical peels and how to choose the right one for your skin type. And don’t worry, if you don’t know which type is right for you, we can help!
What Are Chemical Peels?
Chemical peels are an aesthetic treatment that entails the application of a chemical solution to the skin. This solution can be applied all over but is especially popular to use on the face, hands, back, neck, and décolleté to exfoliate and get rid of dead and damaged skin cells.
After the chemical peel, the skin underneath will be smoother and show less pigment, wrinkles, and damage.
Types of Chemical Peels
Chemical peels are primarily broken up into two types: superficial and medium. Each chemical peel requires a different precursor to the treatment itself. Here is how these different types of chemical peels are characterized:
Superficial Peels
Superficial peels are the lightest variety. A cotton ball, gauze, or brush is used to apply the chemical solution to the area being treated. The targeted area will start to whiten and a slight stinging sensation might transpire. The chemical solution will then be removed and a neutralizing solution will be added.
Medium Peels
Medium peels work a little deeper into the target area but are applied the same way as a superficial peel. Medium peels often contain glycolic or trichloroacetic acid to reach deeper skin layers. Your comfort is always of the utmost importance, and you’ll even be given a fan to use, as needed, to keep your skin cool and comfortable.
Benefits of Different Types of Chemical Peels
Each type of chemical peel comes with unique advantages, depending on whether you are looking for a baseline refreshment or deeper cellular turnover:
Benefits of Superficial Peels
- Minimal to no downtime
- Gentle, safe exfoliation
- Suitable for all skin types and tones
- Enhances surface skin texture and radiance
Benefits of Medium Peels
- More significant, noticeable improvement in skin tone and texture
- Reduces the appearance of fine lines and age spots
- Can target and address precancerous skin growths
Skin Concerns Addressed by Chemical Peels
Aside from improving the general appearance and feel of your skin, chemical peels are highly effective at targeting specific clinical skin concerns.
Acne and Acne Scars
Chemical peels have the potential to significantly reduce the appearance and severity of acne and acne scars by exfoliating the skin and unclogging your pores. Superficial peels are best for managing active acne, while medium peels are moderately more effective in treating established scars.
Hyperpigmentation and Sun Damage
Hyperpigmentation and sun damage can darken certain areas of your skin. Chemical peels help combat this by lightening dark spots and evening out your overall skin tone. Medium chemical peels (such as a VI Peel) work beautifully for both hyperpigmentation and sun damage due to their deep-reaching active ingredients.
Aging Signs (Fine Lines and Wrinkles)
Unless blessed with exceptional genetics, most people will eventually develop signs of aging like fine lines and wrinkles. Chemical peels stimulate new collagen production to reduce the appearance of aging. A medium chemical peel is typically the best option for aging signs due to its ability to penetrate deeper into the dermis.
Rough Skin Texture and Enlarged Pores
The use of chemical peels will smooth rough skin and reduce visible pore size, dramatically improving your skin’s surface architecture. A medium peel is often recommended here, as ingredients like glycolic acid are incredibly efficient at refining this skin type.
Choosing the Right Chemical Peel for Your Skin
When choosing the right chemical peel for your skin, you have to weigh several factors. You’ll want to be familiar with your baseline skin type, the specific results you desire from the treatment, and the amount of downtime you are comfortable with.
To see the best results for healthier, smoother skin, it is best to consult a professional to get a clear grasp of what will work best for you.
What to Expect During and After a Chemical Peel
When looking to get a chemical peel, it’s important to know what to expect from both the procedure and the aftercare process.
The Procedure & Prep
- Consult with your aesthetics provider to map out a treatment plan.
- Protect your skin from heavy sun exposure leading up to your appointment.
- Avoid other harsh, chemical-based treatments or retinoids for a few days prior.
Note: The actual “peeling” process will vary based on your unique skin and the type of peel used. Some people experience no visible peeling at all—but don’t worry, the peel is still working at a cellular level! Others may experience mild flaking or actual peeling in sheets.
Post-Peel Care
- Cleanse gently using only cool water and a mild, soap-free cleanser.
- Moisturize frequently using a non-comedogenic moisturizer until the skin feels completely normal.
- Don’t pick the peeling skin! If needed, use small sterile scissors to carefully cut away loose skin. Resist the urge to pull or accelerate the skin removal process.
- Protect your skin from direct heat exposure and wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily.
- Don’t double up on aggressive treatments right away.
Schedule a Chemical Peel Consultation
Because each person’s skin is different, selecting the correct custom chemical peel is the key to yielding the results you desire. If you believe a chemical peel is the right step for your skin’s future, we are ready to help.
Contact BodyLase® at any of our convenient med spa locations to set up a consultation. Don’t forget to ask about our special promotions and deals for first-time clients!
