The very phrase “chemical peels” sounds frightening, especially in today’s world where organic and chemical-free products are being heavily marketed. However, chemical peels aren’t nearly as scary as they might seem. They can be an excellent way to rejuvenate facial skin for a younger, fresher looking appearance.
Why Get a Chemical Peel?
A chemical peel removes the very topmost layers of the skin where wrinkles and fine lines appear. A chemical peel can also remove the signs of sun damage and age spots, lighten scars, and can help patients with conditions like melasma and skin pigmentation issues.
What Kind of Chemicals Are Used?
There are several different types of chemicals that can be used for a chemical peel, depending on the individual skin type of the patient and the desired results. For example, one type of chemical peel uses salicylic acid, which is ideal for patients with significant acne problems. If you visit any drug store and look at almost any product marketed to reduce acne, you will most likely find that the active ingredient is salicylic acid.
This a safe and effective solution that has been used over-the-counter for years to help reduce acne and improve the appearance of the skin. Another type of chemical peel is a lactic acid peel. Lactic acid is actually a chemical produced by the body itself. It’s a more natural way to get fresher looking skin and reduce the appearance of imperfections without the need for more drastic procedures.
Every chemical used in a peel has been tested over time and has been found to be safe and effective. Individual results may vary depending on skin type, the type of chemical used, the percentage or strength of the chemical used and of course, the desired results.
What to Expect During a Chemical Peel
The chemicals used during a peel are in higher concentrations than over-the-counter beauty products using the same ingredients, so you may experience some slight discomfort or tingling during the peel. At the Elizabeth Roche MD MedSpa, our trained estheticians can help you prepare for your peel and will give you recommendations on how you can stay comfortable afterwards. For some peels, you may want to avoid wearing makeup or sun exposure for a certain amount of time, but can usually return to your daily activities fairly quickly. For more intense peels with more significant results, a few days of downtime may be required.
Is a Chemical Peel Right for You?
Chemical peels can be a safe and effective way to achieve the radiant, younger looking skin you’ve always wanted. Contact us today to learn more about the different types of chemical peels we have available and to have a one-on-one consultation with a licensed esthetician to find out what chemical peel may be right for you.