A chemical peel is a restorative cosmetic procedure that may help reduce the signs of aging on your face. Show
During a chemical peel, a dermatologist will apply a chemical solution to your skin. This solution peels away damaged skin cells, allowing healthy skin to grow in their place. This may help improve common skin concerns, such as:
However, the exact results will depend on many factors, including the severity of your skin issues and the type of peel you receive. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the different types of chemical peels, their benefits, and what to expect during recovery. Your dermatologist can work with you to help determine whether a light, medium, or deep chemical peel is best for your skin and the concerns you’re looking to treat. Light chemical peelA light chemical peel, or superficial peel, will lightly exfoliate your skin. It only removes the epidermis, which is your topmost skin layer. A light chemical peel is usually used for:
This treatment uses mild chemical agents, so it’s usually safe to get light chemical peels every 2 to 5 weeks. Medium chemical peelA medium chemical peel is slightly stronger than a light peel. It removes your epidermis plus the top layer of your dermis, which lies beneath the epidermis. A medium peel is typically used for:
You may need several treatments to get the results you want. Deep chemical peelA deep chemical peel removes your epidermis, along with the upper and middle layer of your dermis. It uses very strong chemicals, so you may need a local anesthetic before the procedure. This will help prevent pain and discomfort. A deep chemical peel is best suited for:
The effects of this peel can last for 10 years, so it’s done only once. You won’t need repeated treatments. Chemical peels can improve many skin issues. Let’s look at some of the most common ones that chemical peels may help treat. AcneAcne is a common inflammatory skin condition. It’s often treated with topical products or oral medication, but chemical peels may also help. The procedure can:
Light and medium chemical peels are usually used to improve acne. Acne scarsAs acne heals, the skin creates new collagen fibers in an attempt to repair lesions that have been created by inflamed skin. The production of new collagen fibers can create hypertrophic scars, which are bumpy and raised, or atrophic scars, which create depressions in your skin. A chemical peel can help by exfoliating the top skin layer, which removes excess collagen. Medium chemical peels are typically recommended for acne scars. RosaceaRosacea is an inflammatory skin condition that causes redness, swelling, and red bumps. If it also causes acne-like breakouts, it’s known as acne rosacea. Sometimes, a chemical peel can help relieve these symptoms. It’s typically recommended for mild or moderate rosacea. Aging skinChemical peels may reduce signs of aging, including:
When skin grows back after a chemical peel, it triggers the production of collagen and elastin. This can help make your skin supple and strong, reducing the appearance of wrinkles. The new skin that grows back is also smoother, which helps decrease roughness and dryness. Chemical peels aren’t recommended for removing deep wrinkles, however. It also won’t tighten sagging skin. HyperpigmentationIn addition to acne scars and age spots, chemical peels can improve other forms of hyperpigmentation, such as:
DullnessIf you have a dull complexion, you may benefit from chemical peels. The treatment allows new skin to resurface, which may help your complexion look brighter and healthier. Precancerous growthsActinic keratoses are rough skin patches caused by years of sun exposure. They’re known as precancerous growths, since they can potentially turn into skin cancer. A deep chemical peel can remove these growths and decrease your risk of skin cancer. Like other cosmetic treatments, chemical peels are not appropriate for everyone. On the other hand, it’s best to avoid chemical peels if you:
As your skin heals, you may need to apply a protective ointment. You’ll also need to wear sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun. The recovery process is different for each type of peel. Let’s take a closer look at what recovery may be like for the different chemical peels. Light chemical peelAfter a light chemical peel, you may experience mild irritation and dryness. You can typically wear makeup the following day and resume your normal skin care activities, like cleansing and moisturizing . It will most likely take between 1 to 7 days for your skin to fully heal. Medium chemical peelThe most common side effects of a medium chemical peel include:
In most cases, you can safely wear makeup within 5 to 7 days. The recovery process typically lasts 7 to 14 days. You may have some redness for several months, though. Deep chemical peelThe most common side effects of a deep chemical peel include:
The swelling can last for 14 days, while the redness may last for 3 months. It may take up to 14 days for your skin to grow back. During this time, you’ll need to wear a surgical dressing and take medication for the pain. You can typically start wearing makeup after 14 days. Although rare, deep chemical peels can be associated with more severe side effects and complications, including:
A chemical peel is a cosmetic treatment that removes the top layer of your skin. This can help minimize wrinkles, dullness, hyperpigmentation, and scarring. It may also help skin disorders like acne and rosacea. However, a chemical peel can’t treat deep wrinkles and scarring. It also won’t tighten loose skin or reverse sun damage. To determine whether a chemical peel is right for you, be sure to talk with your healthcare provider. How long do chemical peels last?The results of chemical peels can last anywhere from one month to the rest of your life. The longevity of a chemical peel's results depends on several factors, but the most significant factor is the strength of the peel. A light, or superficial, peel produces results that usually last between one and two months.
Do dermatologists recommend chemical peels?Dermatologists recommend superficial peels if skin issues only affect the top layer of the skin, the epidermis. Because superficial peels do not penetrate the deeper layers, they carry a lower risk of side effects and the skin tends to recover more quickly.
What are the benefits of chemical peels?Chemical peels treat fine lines, wrinkles, sun damage, pore size, acne, pigmentation, and more.. Treats Acne. ... . Minimizes Pores. ... . Erases Fine Lines and Wrinkles. ... . Fades Discoloration. ... . Lifts Skin. ... . Soothes Scarring. ... . Balances Texture. ... . Smooths Skin.. Can you see results after 1 peel?Yes! Many people can see a significant improvement in the appearance of their skin tone and texture in as little as one peel treatment. This is because a peel functions as an exfoliant, which can drastically improve the superficial quality of your skin.
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