A chemical peel is a dermatological procedure in which a professional applies a chemical solution to the skin. This procedure, often done on the face, is designed to restore the skin’s health and treat underlying issues. There are three categories of chemical peels, and each performs various benefits.
3 Categories of Chemical Peels
The main job of the chemical peel is to peel away the epidermis, which is the first layer of the skin and allows for skin regeneration. Treatments differ from clinic to clinic. Some may follow through with the procedure with other cosmetic products, while others may not. Regardless, it is always best to consult with your dermatologist first.
The three chemical peels are light, medium, and deep peels. The category is determined by the level of acidity, ingredients, and the time the peel stays on the skin.
Each category can treat different skin issues. So know which peel can treat your skin issues best and consult your dermatologist for the best option.
Light Peel
A light peel is the least harsh of the three types of chemical peels. It contains the least acidic chemical component and is recommended for treating minor skin issues such as dull skin.
Light peels exfoliate the uppermost layer of skin. Its shallow penetration and less harsh chemicals make recovery time quick and the risk of side effects minimal.
Three to five light peel procedures should be enough for a complete treatment. And individuals might need once-in-a-while maintenance sessions to maintain the desired results. But one has to wait to recover from a chemical peel procedure before getting another; on average, the recovery time is three days to a week.
Side effects you may expect include redness and light peeling. The severity may depend on your skin’s sensitivity, but usually, these go in a few days. Avoid rubbing the area and applying products that further irritate the skin and lengthen recovery time.
Medium Peel
The medium chemical peel goes beyond the epidermis and penetrates through the upper part of the dermis. Aside from its shared benefits with the light chemical peel, it also deals with more severe and long-lasting skin issues.
The medium chemical peel requires a systematic plan to show effective and apparent results. However, the risk of side effects is higher, and recovery time from a procedure can take at least two weeks. Side effects may include redness, itchiness, mild swelling, and peeling.
Deep Peel
A deep chemical peel works best for major skin issues such as deep wrinkles and dark skin patches. It penetrates through the middle part of the dermis, allowing it to treat deeper underlying issues.
Its dramatic effect equates to a higher risk of significant side effects and a longer recovery time of at least three weeks. You may experience severe side effects, including swelling, burning, and forming small cysts. Frequently make an appointment with a doctor to monitor the healing during your recovery.
A repeat of the deep chemical peel procedure may not be necessary. However, a light or medium chemical peel follow-up procedure may be essential to maintain the result.
5 Benefits of Chemical Peel
The benefits of chemical peels vary for every category, and the risks involved are generally minimal, especially if the procedure is done by a professional in an authorized clinic.
Promotes Brighter Skin Complexion
One of the most significant benefits of chemical peels is that they brighten skin complexion. One light peel is enough to remove the top layer of skin and allow new skin cells to grow. Skin regeneration gives the effect of bright clear skin.
Chemical peels also peel away dead skin cells, eliminating dry and dull skin appearance. Then, newer, smoother skin will resurface.
Limits Acne Breakouts and Reduces the Possibility of Rosacea
Chemical peels also control acne breakouts and eliminate the possibility of rosacea. A couple of light and medium peel procedures can minimize these skin issues.
The number of procedures done will depend on the severity of the problem. Your doctor may also advise follow-up treatments to maintain the result.
Lightens Scars
Throughout the years, the skin may acquire blemishes or scars. Especially on acne-prone skin, acne scars are visible. A light chemical peel can treat faint scars, but consider other chemical peel categories for deeper scars.
You may need more than one or two chemical peel sessions for deep scars. You can ask a doctor for a treatment plan to lighten the scar as much as possible.
Evens Skin Tone
Various reasons can cause uneven skin tone. It could be melasma or excessive sun exposure. Whatever the cause of uneven skin tone is, chemical peels can help even your skin tone.
Peeling away the top layers of the skin also peels away damaged skin cells. Regeneration will bring out new, undamaged skin cells. These will give the appearance of an even skin tone.
Minimizes Wrinkles
One of the most loved benefits of chemical peels is reducing wrinkles. Like chemical peels, wrinkles also range from light to deep. But the most effective against wrinkles would be the deep chemical peel.
It is possible to eliminate light wrinkles, but it’s not the same for deep wrinkles. Deep chemical peels are the best option against deep wrinkles.
Prevents the Possibility of Skin Cancer
Actinic keratoses are the possible cause of rough, dry, or scaly patches on the skin. It is caused by extreme sun exposure and can grow into skin cancer. Sometimes they raise tiny bumps too.
The deep peel can prevent the gradual growth of actinic keratoses. If dealt with early, deep peels can nip it in the bud.
Last Words
Chemical peels have been around in the dermatology industry for decades. Now it’s gaining more and more attention from those who want to get their skin issues treated without the hassle of more invasive procedures. Aside from the positive effects it has on the skin, the process is also relatively safe as long as it is done by a professional.
You can get a free consultation with Alchemy West about chemical peels. Reach out to us by phone at 864-263-7868 or email at alchemywestsc@gmail.com.
