Chemical peels are the most popular treatment in the US – almost 1.4 million were performed in the US in 2018!
Although the name may sound intimidating, chemical peels have long been considered a cure-all for a myriad of skin problems.
But not every chemical peel is made equal. Factors like your skin tone, medical history, and skincare needs will play a role in what treatment you receive.
Keep reading to learn more about what a chemical peel is and what you can expect if you choose to receive a peel treatment.
What is a Chemical Peel?
A chemical peel is a process that encourages your skin to regenerate skin sales faster. It is one of the many services performed by an esthetician and involves applying a chemical solution to your face to remove the top layers.
The skin that grows back will be smoother and healthier. The three most common types of skin peels – light, medium, and dark use varying chemical solutions.
Light chemical peels are used to remove your epidermis, which is the outermost layer of your skin. It’s used to treat light wrinkles, fine lines, acne, and uneven skin tones. You can have a light chemical peel every two to five weeks.
Medium chemical peels go deeper than a light peel, as they remove the skin from the middle layer of the skin (the dermis). These peels can only happen once or twice a year.
Deep chemical peels are the most intense chemical peels possible. They’ll remove cells from your epidermis, upper dermis, and up to the lower layer of your dermis.
You’ll likely never receive a deep chemical peel in your life. They’re only recommenced if you have scars or precancerous growths. You can only have a deep chemical peel once.
Benefits of a Chemical Peel
There’s a reason why chemical peels have been popular for decades – they can provide transformative results.
Aside from smoother, younger-looking skin, chemical peels are also able to:
- Balance skin imperfections
- Improve skin tone
- Help skin texture
- Reduce certain kinds of acne
- Minimize age spots and dark patches
- Make scars less noticeable
- Reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
Regardless of your skin concern, a chemical peel will likely provide positive results!
Who Should Receive a Chemical Peel?
Typically, chemical peels are ideal for individuals with lighter hair and fairer skin. Darker skin tones may not respond to chemical peels as well but have shown to have positive results if performed properly.
If you have severe wrinkles, it’s important to not go into your chemical peel treatment with any expectations that it will reduce them.
Certain individuals should consult with their doctors before getting a chemical peel. If you’ve taken oral acne mediation in the last 6 months, have frequent cold sore outbreaks, or are pregnant, wait until you have the go-ahead before a chemical peel treatment.
Chemical Peel FAQs
Still on the fence about getting a chemical peel? You’re not alone – here are some common FAQs that many women have before getting one.
Do Chemical Peels Hurt?
Pain is one of the most common concerns regarding chemical peels. But not to worry! Your light and medium peels won’t hurt. However, there will be some discomfort.
During a chemical peel, you’ll feel a slight burning sensation that lasts 5 to 10 minutes, followed by stinging. Discomfort will range from mild to moderate, but it will go down as you get used to the process.
Your esthetician will likely have cooling compresses or calming lotion available to make the process more tolerable.
What Risks Are Possible?
No chemical treatment is without risks. Normal healing involves redness, swelling, and some scabbing.
Chemical peels may also cause infection or changes in skin color, both of which are usually impermanent.
Your esthetician will play the most important role in minimizing any adverse results. Make sure to be transparent about your medical history so that they can alert you of any risks and choose the best products for your skin.
How Long Is the Healing Process?
Healing time is different depending on the treatment you receive.
Light chemical peels typically require 1 to 7 days. Your skin will be red after the peel, but the recess will go away shortly. 3 to 5 peels may be necessary to achieve desired results.
If you haven’t received a chemical peel before, you’ll likely receive a light treatment every few weeks.
Medium chemical peels will heal in 7 to 14 days. Your skin will crust and peel off, and you may have blisters on the skin.
You should apply appointment and soak your skin daily as advised, and it’s recommended to avoid makeup for 7 days. You’ll return for a follow-up.
Deep chemical peels take up to 21 days to heal. Your skin will be bandaged after the peel and will need 5 daily soaks. You’ll have to stay out of the sun for 6 months after the peel and follow up with your physical several times after.
What Care Is Required After Getting a Chemical Peel?
Depending on the chemicals used and your skin type, you’ll follow a different routine after your peel.
After any peel, you’ll want to apply moisturizer to lock in moisturizer. Limit sun exposure and stay out of tanning beds as directed. Make sure to also apply sunscreen every day.
Some chemical peels will have downtime, which means that there will be a period in which you’re not allowed to put anything on your skin or get it wet. Usually, these periods will only last 24 hours.
Treat Your Skin With a Chemical Peel
If you’re looking to improve your skin in 2022, a chemical peel may give you the transformation you’re hoping for. Whether you’re looking to reduce the appearance of light wrinkles or have a brighter glow, a chemical peel will make your skin feel like new – because it is!
It’s important to connect with an esthetician you trust before any skin treatment. We encourage you to reach out to us so we can get to know you and your skincare goals!
