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About Chemical Peels

Also known as chemexfoliation or derma-peeling, chemical peels have been most commonly used for the elimination of wrinkles and other signs of aging. As the name might suggest, they literally peel off a layer of the epidermis, ideally peeling away imperfections, damaged skin cells, and even discoloration while stimulating the production of healthy collagen and elastin.

According to experts, the skin should be smoother, less wrinkled, and more even than old skin, even though it requires a blistering process that makes skin extremely sensitive to the sun. They can be used on the face, neck or hands. But obviously, chemical peels have many uses, including the treatment of severe acne vulgaris or acne rosacea.

How Do Chemical Peels Treat Acne?

Chemical peels work by peeling away a layer of the skin. Ideally, this would unclog pores by removing dead skin cells. But because of the ingredients used, chemical peels have also been known to eliminate bacteria. The most common chemical peels use salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or alpha hydroxy acids, all of which have been used in everyday acne treatments. The difference is that they use extremely high concentrations that are to be used with extreme caution.

Who Should Use Chemical Peels?

Most experts recommend that darker skin types not use chemical peels. Some chemical peels, especially the deeper chemical peels, have been associated with a bleaching effect. And they could even create discoloration. They recommend that practitioners limit its use to those with fair skin and light hair.

The Risks of a Chemical Peel

Estheticians and doctors can administer a proper chemical peel. But there are plenty of so called “practitioners” who are not qualified or experienced in the art of chemical peels. They may be cheaper. But it is better to go to a qualified physician. Someone who is not trained can leave a chemical peel on too long, causing unnecessary bleaching and the “angry” look some worry about. A botched chemical peel can also cause excessive and even permanent damage to healthy skin cells. When tools are not properly cleaned, chemical peels could also lead to severe infections.

How to Prepare for a Chemical Peel

The first thing you should do is to find a qualified physician. You should check their references, talk to past patients, and find out all that you can about them. A doctor can make recommendations as to which chemical peels are appropriate for your skin type, and sometimes, he/she will tell you that you should use another treatment. He will also tell you which treatments to stop using, provide moisturizers and other products that will help your skin to heal after the procedure, and otherwise prepare you for before and after.

What You Should Expect

Pain and a burning sensation is normal. Most patients experience pain that lasts approximately 5 to 10 minutes, followed by a stinging sensation. Cool compresses may be used to alleviate this stinging sensation. But should you choose a deeper peel, doctors may prescribe prescription pain killers. Doctors will typically apply bandages, to be removed a few days later.

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