A chemical peel is a new concept in town. It has gained popularity in a relatively low time frame, and people recommend it because of its effective results. Let us know about various types of chemical peels in detail and see how they can change your skincare routine.
What is a chemical peel?
You may be wondering what a chemical peel is and why it has become the talk of the town.
Chemical peels enhance your skin quality and give you a radiant look. You can apply it to your face, hands, and neck. The chemical solutions exfoliate the skin and provide glowing skin. In addition, the peel removes the top layer of the skin and exposes the new skin, which is softer, smoother, and less wrinkled.
You can use chemical peels to fight:
- Sun damage
- Wrinkles and fine lines
- Acne scars
- Hyperpigmentation
- Melasma
- Uneven skin tone or redness
You can choose the most suitable peel from different types of chemical peels to get the desired result.
Look at the various types of chemical peels
- Superficial peels
It penetrates the outermost layer of the skin and consists of mild acids like alpha-hydroxy. - Medium peels
It is beneficial while removing the damaged cells and includes trichloroacetic or glycolic acid. It works on the middle and outer skin layers. - Deep peels
Deep peels remove damaged cells from the middle layer of the skin. It uses phenol or trichloroacetic acid.
Pollution and dead skin hide your natural glow and make the skin appear dull. These peels help you regain the lost glow.
The technique of chemical peeling
Chemical peels are carried out in a skin clinic as an outpatient procedure. The procedure starts with tying your hair at the back, and then your face is cleaned. Next, you are provided with eye protection gear, and the surgeon numbs the treatment area with topical anaesthesia. If you have chosen deep peel, then you will be given an IV. Your heart rate is also monitored during a deep chemical peel process.
In a light chemical peel, salicylic acid is used in the treatment. The solution is applied to the skin with the help of a cotton ball or brush. You may experience a slight stinging sensation. You can notice the whitening of your skin, and once the procedure is complete, the solution is removed from your skin.
A cotton-tipped applicator is used to apply trichloroacetic or glycolic acid on your skin during a medium peel. A blue pigment is added to trichloroacetic, and hence it is called the blue peel. You can notice the brightening of your skin and may feel a stinging sensation for about 20 minutes. A cool compress is used to control the burning sensation, and the doctor may give you a hand-held fan to cool down your skin.
In deep peel, the procedure starts with giving sedation, and then a cotton-tipped applicator is used. Next, the applicator is used to apply phenol to the skin. The solution will turn your skin grey or white. The process is carried out in 15-minute portions to limit sun exposure to the acid.
Preparation tips for a chemical peel
After understanding what chemical peel is in detail, you need to prepare yourself for the process. First, you need to undergo a consultation round with your skin specialist. It will help you decide the most suitable peel for your skin. You will also get to know about the aftercare tips and the precautions you need to take. Your skin specialist may ask you about acne medications. Before a chemical peel, you must:
- Not use retinol for at least 48 hours before the treatment.
- Inform your skin specialist about the medication you take.
- Not have been on Accutane for at least six months.
The skin specialist may recommend you to:
- Use a retinol-based cream or lotion to prevent skin darkening.
- Use special lotions.
- Take antiviral medicines to prevent breakouts around the mouth.
- Stop waxing, bleaching, epilating, or using any other hair removal technique.
- Stop using face scrubs and exfoliants.
You may take a friend or family member with you, who can drive you back to your home. You may choose ALCS Clinic for your chemical peel treatment. Our skincare specialists first understand your skin and then suggest the best treatment option.
We hope you may have understood about chemical peels through this blog and have got the answer to “What is a chemical peel?”