What is a chemical peel?

A chemical peel is a noninvasive skin treatment that improves the appearance of:

• Acne
• Acne scars
• Fine lines
• Wrinkles
• Dark spots
• Hyperpigmentation
• Uneven skin tone
• Melasma
• Age spots

Your dermatologist helps to regenerate your damaged skin using a specially formulated chemical solution, which exfoliates the outermost layer and eventually causes it to peel off. Once the top layer has peeled off, your new skin underneath will look fresh and smooth.

There are three popular types of chemical peels from which to choose, depending on your skin type and sensitivity level:

Superficial Peel

A mild acid like alpha-hydroxy acid is used by your dermatologist to penetrate the outermost layer of skin. This type of superficial peel, also called a lunchtime peel, improves the appearance of skin discoloration and rough skin on the face, neck, and hands. It is considered the gentlest of the three chemical peels.

Medium Peel

Medium chemical peels are recommended to improve age spots, fine lines and wrinkles, discoloration, freckles, rough skin, and actinic keratosis, a medium peel uses glycolic or trichloroacetic acid to penetrate the middle layer of your skin.

Deep Peel

A deep peel is the most intense of the three chemical treatments and can only be done on your skin once. Tricholoracetic acid or phenol is applied to the skin during a deep chemical peel to remove wrinkles, age spots, freckles, scars, and more. Most patients see dramatic improvements in their skin complexion and skin tone after a deep chemical peel.

Does a chemical peel hurt?

Though your chemical peel might sting, it shouldn’t hurt. Redness, irritation, sun sensitivity, and mild crusting are also normal reactions to a chemical peel that should lessen over time. If your skin seems inflamed when you leave the office, your dermatologist may give you gel or cream to soothe the irritation.

Ask your dermatologist about makeup and sunscreen use following your chemical peel.

Can anybody get a chemical peel?

Traditional chemical peels make the most noticeable difference in those with thin, fair skin with light wrinkles or fine lines.

Gentle chemical peel options are available for those with sensitive skin, but it’s essential to avoid the treatment altogether if you are:

• Pregnant
• Breastfeeding
• Using Renova, Retin-A, or other prescription skincare products
• Suffering from eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, or rosacea
• Taking isotretinoin

Smoking and sun exposure should be avoided after you get a chemical peel. Call or book an appointment online with Still Beauty & Med Spa today to learn more.