Chemical Peels
A chemical peel is a procedure done to your face, neck and hands, where the top layers of skin are removed. In an effort to improve the skin’s appearance, a chemical solution is applied to your skin, which blisters up. The blistering up allows for the top layers to peel off. This process reveals new skin underneath, resulting in smoother skin with less wrinkles.
Chemical peels are used to help treat fine lines under the eyes, around the mouth and treat wrinkles caused by sun damage and aging. Peels also help improve the overall appearance of mild scars as well as reducing signs of age spots, dark patches and freckles.
Individuals who are fair-skinned, with light-colored hair are the best candidates for chemical peels. Though this does not mean if you have darker skin, you cannot have a peel. It all depends on what you are treating. Those with darker toned skin may experience uneven skin tones after treatment. Some skin conditions, such as sags, severe and deep wrinkles and bulges, do not respond well to chemical peels. A medical professional can help determine if a skin peel will give you optimal results. Whether you’re looking for or if you need to have a different type of treatments.
Before getting your chemical peel, talk to your medical professional that specializes in skin care about your history. Let him or her know if you have any history of scarring or cold sores that continually return. This is also the time to discuss what medications you are taking and how to prepare your skin for treatment. Once you discuss all your concerns and learn what to expect during and after the procedure, your medical professional will help you determine how deep-superficial, medium or deep your chemical peel should be and which chemical solution is best. A small test spot may be conducted to check for any allergic reactions and to get an idea of what your results might be.
Prepare your skin by cleansing and moisturizing it twice daily and using sunscreen. This will help ensure the results from your peel are even and helps with the healing process.
After the treatment, your skin will temporarily be more sensitive to the sun. Make sure to wear sunscreen everyday, even if you do not plan to be outside for long periods of time. During the few days after treatment, it is best to limit your exposure to the sun. Especially during the peak hours between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Wide-brimmed hats also help protect your face when outdoors.
Your recovery time after the procedure will depend on the type of peel you had done and how deep it was. It may also take several weeks for you to see the results from the peel. Before going home, you will be instructed how to care for your skin post treatment to prevent infection and speed up healing.
Before getting your peel, speak with your aesthetician or Medical professional. Learn what to expect and how to take care of your skin post treatment. This will help ensure you get the results you are looking for and your skin is well taken care of.
