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Are chemical peels safe? What can they help with? If you’re curious about chemical peels, you’re in the right place. This article goes over everything you need to know about chemical peels
The phrase “chemical peel” sounds a bit scary, but don’t let it fool you. Chemical peels are your friend. They are kind of like a shortcut to smoother, more youthful skin. They can help reduce fine lines, improve skin texture, reduce imperfections and more. And while we can tell you that chemical peels are safe and effective, it often helps to understand how they work before taking the leap!
Let’s talk about how chemical peels actually work, the pros and cons and all the frequently asked questions we hear about this common aesthetic procedure.
What do Chemical Peels do?
Chemical peels are aesthetic treatments that utilize chemical solutions to exfoliate the skin, lifting off the top layers to reveal a more refreshed layer. This process can effectively help refine the skin’s texture and address a variety of issues such as:
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Skin discoloration and pigmentation issues
- Scars, including acne scars
- Sun damage
- Rough patches
They can also help unclog pores and reduce oiliness.
How Do Chemical Peels Work?
There are really two things at play here. First, chemical peels give you an immediately refreshed look because they get rid of old, dull skin cells and reveal untouched skin. This is where the immediate, visible effect happens – the “wow factor”! However, that is only part of the story. By getting rid of the old, dead skin, chemical peels help stimulate the production of new cells. These cells promote collagen production, which in turn enhances the elasticity and firmness of your skin.
So while the exfoliation gives you a more dramatic visual effect, these mechanisms are happening under the surface over the course of weeks.
But all peels are not created equal. There are superficial and deep peels, and the depth of it
determines the level of exfoliation and the subsequent healing process. The depth also determines the amount of impact the peel has on your skin, both the immediate and long term. Deep peels can have a fairly dramatic impact on skin texture and skin tone problems.
Different Levels of Chemical Peels
You will see terms like “lite” or “deep” peel when you look for a chemical peel. Here is what those phrases mean in real-terms.
Light or Superficial Peels: Oftentimes these peels use alpha-hydroxy acids or beta-hydroxy acids to target the outermost layer of the skin. They are used to help with mild skin issues and regular rejuvenation, like maintenance. This type of peel requires minimal recovery time.
Medium Peels: This type of peel often uses trichloroacetic or glycolic acid to reach the middle layer depth of the skin. At this level it can help address issues such as fine lines, wrinkles, scarring and skin discoloration issues. This type of peel requires a slightly longer recovery period.
Deep Peels: Typically phenol acid is the main component of deep peels. This agent affects the skin at deeper layers, and can impact more serious skin issues, from deeper wrinkles to acne scarring. This type of peel requires the most recovery time.
Types of Peeling Agents in Chemical Peels
Chemical peels rely on a range of peeling agents. By understanding the way each work, your practitioner can create a custom formula for your skin to address your concern more effectively.
Alpha-Hydroxy Acids (AHAs): These are derived from natural substances such as sugar cane, milk, and fruits. AHAs such as glycolic and lactic acid are popular for superficial peels. They effectively exfoliate the skin’s surface to help reduce the signs of aging and overall improve the skin’s look and feel.
Beta-Hydroxy Acids (BHAs): Salicylic acid is actually the most common BHA used for peels. This is because it is able to penetrate deep into the pores. BHA is considered especially helpful for skin that is oily or acne-prone, helping to reduce the number and severity of breakouts.
Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA): This is used in medium depth peels and can help with more pronounced skin issues like moderate wrinkles and pigmentation irregularities. TCA gives results that are considered more dramatic than AHAs and BHAs.
Phenol: This is the most potent of the peeling agents and it is used in deep skin peels. Phenol is used when more profound skin resurfacing is desired, such as addressing deeper wrinkles, more serious sun damage and acne scarring. Because it is so intense, it does require significant recovery time.
Jessner’s Solution: This is a popular combination of resorcinol, lactic acid, and salicylic acid. It is considered a superficial to medium peel and is used to help with acne, pigmentation, and to prepare the skin for deeper peels.
Enzyme Peels: This type of peel utilizes fruit enzymes from pineapple, pumpkin, or papaya to gently exfoliate the skin. Enzyme peels are typically suitable for all skin types and are especially helpful for those with sensitive skin. This is a great option for exfoliation without the use of acids.
How Long Does It Take To Recover From A Chemical Peel
The depth of the chemical peel is the largest factor in both how effective it is and how long it takes to recover from it. A light, superficial peel leads to mild redness and light peeling. This means you typically return to normal activities immediately, following aftercare instructions like avoiding direct sun and using sunscreen. For the most part though, there is no real downtime.
Medium peels will have more noticeable flaking and can require more downtime. Many people try to give themselves at least 3-4 days if not more to allow the redness and swelling to reduce. For example, some people find that they have redness for up to 10 days, so you may want to give yourself some extra time.
A deep peel, however, requires more significant healing time. It is accompanied by swelling and considerable peeling. You also need to adhere to an aftercare program carefully, making recovery more stringent. You’ll likely have more severe redness for the first 7 or so days, with reduced redness up to 2 weeks. So if you’re planning on a deep peel, you will need a recovery period that allows you to sufficiently heal.
Regardless of the type of chemical peel you have, it is vital to follow post-treatment care instructions given to you by your provider .These instructions ensure that you heal properly and that you get the best results possible. No matter how minor you think the peel may be, do yourself a favor and take post-treatment instructions seriously!
What is Aftercare Life After a Chemical Peel
The aftercare depends on the type of peel you had. Most of the time, you need to avoid hot showers, saunas and intense workouts for the first 7 to 14 days. Additionally you’ll need to avoid skincare products with retinol and exfoliants. You should use sunscreen and avoid the sun as much as possible to allow your sensitive skin time to heal. And as you heal, your skin will flake; it is important that you do not pick or peel it during this time.
Again, we want to stress that it is vital that you closely follow the instructions that your provider gives you for aftercare. They know your skin and they know the exact treatment you had, so they are in the best position to provide aftercare directions. By following their directions religiously, you can recover and get the best results possible!
Are chemical peels safe?
With a name like “chemical peel” it is fair to ask if they are safe. Fortunately, however, these treatments are tried and true for skin resurfacing. Chemical peels are safe as long as they are performed by a skilled and experienced provider. You want to look for someone who is experienced in offering all types of peels, who has great reviews and a solid history in the community.
It is important that they tailor the peel to your needs. Customizing the treatment to match each skin type and condition minimizes the risk of adverse effects. It’s important that their facility is clean, the ingredients are high-quality, and that they take time to answer all your questions.
Chemical peels are a great tool for skincare, from maintenance to addressing a range of concerns. By understanding how they work you can dispel some of the mystery and fear around them and make an informed decision. And if you happen to be in or near Chino, California and have more questions, just give us a call.
Chemical Peel FAQ
The following are commonly asked questions about chemical peels.
What type of skin issue can chemical peels help with?
Chemical peels can help with:
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Skin discoloration and pigmentation issues
- Scars, including acne scars
- Sun damage
- Rough patches
Can any skin tone get a chemical peel?
Yes, any skin tone can get a chemical peel, from light to darker skin. While lighter skins are traditionally considered the best candidates for this treatment, superficial peels are typically considered safe for everyone. Having a skilled provider that has experience with your skin tone is important.
How do chemical peels work?
Chemical peels get rid of old, dull skin cells and reveal fresh untouched skin. They also help stimulate the production of new cells, which improve collagen production and elasticity.
Are chemical peels safe?
Yes, chemical peels are safe. It is, however, important to use a skilled and experienced provider that customizes the treatment to your skin type.
Is there downtime with a chemical peel?
The amount of downtime depends on the type of peel. A light or superficial peel causes mild redness and light peeling which usually resolves in a few days. You can typically function normally during this time.Medium and deep peels cause more significant redness, swelling and peeling. You will need downtime to recover from these treatments. Your provider will give you an estimate of recovery time based on your situation.
