It could be time to consider skin treatment when you look in the mirror and feel like the person staring back isn’t your true reflection. Many different skin treatments are available to help you look and feel your best. However, if the top layer of your skin becomes extra dry, loose, hyperpigmented, wrinkled, or rough, you may want, or perhaps even need, a next-level skin treatment.

Beyond the Surface

Your skin serves as a protective barrier while continuously being exposed to free radicals, toxins, and pollution. These external factors can build up and cause damage to the skin’s surface. However, you can access a rejuvenated, younger, even-toned layer of skin after experiencing a chemical facial. 

A chemical peel facial is a skin-resurfacing treatment that removes the top layers. These layers gradually peel off, removing damaged skin cells and revealing brighter, more hydrated skin underneath. A chemical peel also aids in the improvement of fine lines, texture, age spots, and pigmented scars. 

There are three types of chemical peel facials that vary in intensity. A superficial or lunchtime chemical peel targets the top layer of your skin and uses alpha-hydroxy acid. You can expect treatment to be gentle and effective with minimal peeling. A superficial chemical peel is excellent for treating scarring and sun damage and minimizing the appearance of dilated pores. You can get a superficial peel to treat your hands, face, chest, or neck and receive a superficial peel every 2 to five weeks. Results tend to be subtle and are noticeable over time. 

A medium-depth peel works to rejuvenate the middle and outer layers of the skin by using glycolic or trichloroacetic acid. Like a superficial chemical peel facial, this peel will treat sun-damaged skin, wrinkles, and fine lines. It can also assist in reducing the visibility of small scars. If you plan to get a medium-depth chemical peel, you will want to plan for one to two weeks for healing. It will take that long for your skin to peel fully. A series of three treatments is recommended for best results. 

Finally, deep peels are the most intense chemical that uses Trichloroacetic acid or phenol. Recommended for those with moderate to severe wrinkles, a deep peel can take two to three weeks to heal. Deep chemical peels require a short recovery period and specialized skin cleansing formula. Deep peels may be the best chemical peels for dark spots and severe sun damage. 

What’s The Big Deal?

Do chemical peel facials really make a difference? Well, when your skin peels gently, revealing a new layer of skin underneath, you will notice results. Chemical peels can treat precancerous scaly spots known as actinic keratosis as well as certain types of acne. With so many conditions benefitting from chemical peels, it is easy to see why these specialized treatments really make a difference. 

Superficial peels can be used on all skin types. It is important to note that those with darker skin tones have an increased risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, or skin darkening, after treatment. 

A chemical peel is not recommended if:

  • You have extra coloring in your scars  
  • You cannot stay out of the sun during your healing duration 
  • You have a history of abnormal skin scarring
  • Your skin is very sensitive when you take certain medications 

You may experience increased cold sores after your peel if you have a history of outbreaks. 

Preparing for your Peel

Once you have determined a chemical peel is right for you, talk to your practitioner about your skincare goals. This and your skin health history will guide you in choosing the right peel intensity. Prior to your chemical peel, you’ll be asked to avoid products with retinoids at least two weeks before treatment. You must also avoid tanning or direct or prolonged sun exposure for two weeks before each treatment. 

Your practitioner will thoroughly clean your skin on the day of your treatment. Next, the acid solution will be applied. You may feel a slight stinging sensation, but your practitioner will do everything possible to ensure you are comfortable. After the solution is set, your practitioner will add a neutralizing agent to stop the treatment and wash the solution from your face. The timing and duration of peeling will vary based on the type of chemical peel you received. 

Post Peel Considerations

As your skin peels, you’ll notice some redness and scaling, similar to what you might experience after a bad sunburn. Chemical peel aftercare is vitally important. As directed, you will apply a lotion or cream to your skin to encourage healing. If you received a superficial chemical peel, you can wear makeup right after treatment. For medium chemical peels, you’ll experience redness, possibly some swelling, and may even see blisters. Your skin is going to crust and peel. Skin treated with a medium chemical peel requires daily soaks and special ointments to protect the fresh skin and ease the elimination of old skin. Give it about a week before you apply any makeup after a medium chemical peel. 

Since a deep chemical peel is the most intense of the three options, you may be bandaged after treatment. Some practitioners also request you take antiviral medication for two weeks. You cannot apply makeup to your face for two weeks as well. 

Post-peel, regardless of what type you get, you will need to give your skin a little extra tender love and care. This will help keep the new and fresh skin healthy and usher in the desired results! 

Chemical Peels Benefits

No matter what potency you and your practitioner choose, there are plenty of chemical peels benefits you will enjoy:

  • Younger looking skin
  • Firmer skin 
  • Reduction of fine lines and wrinkles
  • Smooth skin
  • Even-toned skin
  • Reduction of acne scarring visibility
  • Reduction of acne
  • Brighter skin
  • Increased self-confidence

Choosing the Skin Treatment Right for You

Perhaps you are still unsure if a chemical peel facial is right for you and your skincare goals. Other similar treatments are available such as microdermabrasion, which is minimally invasive. Microdermabrasion is an exfoliating procedure that renews overall skin tone and texture by scraping dull and dead skin away. Oh, and it is done painlessly. Microdermabrasion will reduce the appearance of acne scars, fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots, all while illuminating the skin’s outermost surface with a fresh layer of healthy skin. 

The bottom line is yes, chemical peel facials do make a difference. With three potency options, you can choose one that fits your needs and helps you meet your skincare goals. If you are unsure where to start, consider booking a consultation with the First Impressions Rejuvenation Clinic team. You can learn more about skin treatments and options to help you look and feel radiant.

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