Chemical Peels: Types Of Peels, Conditions Treated, And What To Expect

If you’re seeking to enhance the look and feel of your skin, chemical peels could be the solution you’ve been seeking. These highly sought-after cosmetic treatments are widely known to help improve various skin conditions, such as acne, hyperpigmentation, fine lines, and wrinkles.

Choosing the correct type of chemical peel can be daunting, given the vast array of options available. Therefore, this article explores the different types of chemical peels, the various skin conditions they can treat, and what you should expect before and during the procedure. Whether you are a skincare aficionado or a novice in chemical peels, this article will provide the necessary information to decide whether a chemical peel suits you.

Types Of Chemical Peels

Chemical peels come in three main types: superficial, medium, and deep peels. Choosing the right peel for you will depend on the specific skin concerns you hope to address and the penetration depth you’re comfortable with.

1. Superficial peels

Superficial peels are the gentlest type of chemical peel and primarily use alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) such as glycolic acid or lactic acid to exfoliate the outermost layer of skin. This peel suits those seeking to address minor skin concerns like rough texture or mild hyperpigmentation. Superficial peels are relatively quick and painless, with minimal downtime required.

2. Medium peels

Medium peels use trichloroacetic acid (TCA) to penetrate deeper into the skin than superficial peels. This peel can help address more significant skin concerns like moderate hyperpigmentation, fine lines, and acne scars. While medium peels are more intense than superficial peels, the results can also be more dramatic.

3. Deep peels

Deep peels are the most intense chemical peel and use phenol to penetrate the skin. Deep peels are typically reserved for those with severe skin concerns, such as deep wrinkles or extensive sun damage. While deep peels can produce significant results, they require a longer recovery period and can be more uncomfortable than other peels.

Which To Choose?

Given the abundance of chemical peels available, determining the most appropriate one for your skin can be daunting. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a chemical peel:

1. Skin Type: Your skin type can determine which chemical peel is best for you. Those with sensitive skin may opt for a milder peel, while those with oily or acne-prone skin may benefit from a stronger peel.
2. Skin Concerns: The specific skin concerns you’re hoping to address will also play a role in which type of chemical peel is right for you. A superficial peel may be sufficient for minor concerns like rough texture or mild hyperpigmentation. However, more significant problems like deep wrinkles or extensive sun damage may require a deeper peel.
3. Downtime: Different types of chemical peels require different amounts of downtime. Superficial peels typically require little to no downtime, while medium and deep peels may require several days or even weeks of recovery time.
4. Consultation with a Professional: The best way to determine which chemical peel is right for you is to consult a skincare professional. A dermatologist or esthetician can assess your skin type and concerns and recommend a chemical peel tailored to your needs.

By considering these factors, you can select a chemical peel that will help you achieve your skincare goals safely and effectively.

Conditions Treated By Chemical Peels

Chemical peels can treat many skin conditions, including acne, hyperpigmentation, fine lines, and wrinkles. Let’s take a closer look at how chemical peels can help with these specific concerns:

• Acne: acne can be a persistent and frustrating skin concern that affects many people. Chemical peels that use salicylic acid or glycolic acid can help to unclog pores, reduce inflammation, and improve the overall appearance of acne-prone skin. With regular treatments, chemical peels can help reduce breakouts’ frequency and severity.
• Hyperpigmentation: hyperpigmentation refers to areas of the skin that are darker than the surrounding skin tone. Sun damage, hormonal changes, or inflammation can cause this. Chemical peels that use alpha-hydroxy acids like glycolic acid or mandelic acid can help to gently exfoliate the skin, fading the appearance of hyperpigmentation and leaving the skin looking brighter and more even-toned.
• Signs of Aging: Fine lines, wrinkles, and other signs of aging are a common concern for many as they age. Chemical peels that use trichloroacetic acid (TCA) or phenol can help to stimulate collagen production, smoothing out fine lines and wrinkles and leaving the skin looking more youthful and refreshed.

What To Expect During A Chemical Peel

Before commencing the chemical peel, your skincare specialist will thoroughly cleanse your skin to eliminate any dirt, oil, or makeup present. Additionally, they may apply a pre-peel solution to prime your skin for the treatment.

As the solution is administered to your skin, you may feel tingling or burning. Although this is typical, it should subside within several minutes. Depending on the type of chemical peel, the solution may be left on your skin for a few minutes or up to an hour.

Once the prescribed time has elapsed, your skincare expert will neutralize and remove the peel. They may also apply a calming cream or mask to alleviate any redness or irritation.

Generally, the chemical peel procedure is brief and relatively painless. However, you may experience a few side effects, such as redness, peeling, and sun sensitivity, during the days and weeks following the procedure.

Aftercare

Aftercare is crucial to any chemical peel treatment to ensure your skin recovers and achieves optimal results. Proper aftercare typically involves avoiding sun exposure and using gentle skincare products to protect your newly rejuvenated skin. 

Your skincare professional will provide detailed instructions on caring for your skin post-peel, including any special precautions and what to expect during the healing process. Follow their recommendations carefully to minimize side effects like redness, peeling, and sun sensitivity and to help your skin look its best.

Takeaway

Suppose you’re considering a chemical peel to revive your skin’s appearance. In that case, it’s vital to collaborate with a skincare expert who can lead you through the procedure and ensure you receive the best possible results. 

Arike Aesthetics provides various chemical peel options that cater to your skin concerns and requirements. Our knowledgeable estheticians will partner with you to create a tailored treatment plan that promotes your skincare goals safely and effectively. Contact us today to embark on the journey toward achieving your desired skin!