What To Know About Chemical Peel Dermatologist ?A chemical peel is a cosmetic procedure that involves applying a chemical solution to the skin. This solution causes the top layer of skin to dry out and peel off, revealing new, healthy skin underneath. Chemical peels can be used on all areas of the face, including your nose, cheeks, forehead, mouth and chin. A chemical peel is performed by a dermatologist or a skincare professional. After the solution is applied, it’s left on for about 10-20 minutes before being neutralized and washed off with cool water. A light dressing may be placed over your skin to help protect it from irritation caused by friction during daily activity.

The side effects of chemical peels vary depending on the type of peel used, but generally include redness or irritation following treatment. You may also experience mild swelling and flaking of the skin after treatment that lasts anywhere from one day to two weeks depending on how deep your chemical peel was administered by your dermatologist or skincare professional.

Chemical peels are used to treat wrinkles, discolored skin and scars — usually on the face. They can be done alone or combined with other cosmetic procedures. And they can be done at different depths, from light to deep. Deeper chemical peels offer more-dramatic results but also take longer to recover from.Read on to learn more Chemical Peel For Hyperpigmentation and Chemical Peel For Acne Dermatologist.

What To Know About Chemical Peel Dermatologist

• chemical peels are used to remove damaged skin cells, revealing healthier skin underneath
• there are different types of peels: light, medium, and deep

Safety:

• when conducted by a board-certified dermatologist, plastic surgeon, licensed healthcare provider, or trained skin care specialist, chemical peels are exceptionally safe
• it’s essential to follow your provider’s postop instructions carefully

Convenience:

• light chemical peels do not require much down time
• medium and deep chemical peels can require two to three weeks of recovery time
• the procedures can last anywhere from 30 minutes to 90 minutes

Cost:

• the cost of chemical peels depends on the type of peel you get
• the average cost of a chemical peel is $673

What are chemical peels?

Chemical peels are cosmetic treatments that can be applied to the face, hands, and neck. They’re used to improve the appearance or feel of the skin. During this procedure, chemical solutions will be applied to the area being treated, which causes the skin to exfoliate and eventually peel off. Once this happens, the new skin underneath is often smoother, appears less wrinkled, and may have less damage.

There are a number of reasons people may get chemical peels. They may be trying to treat a variety of things, including:

• wrinkles and fine lines
• sun damage
• acne scars
• hyperpigmentation
• scars
• melasma
• uneven skin tone or redness

What type of chemical peels can I get?

There are three different types of chemical peels that you can get. These include:

• Superficial peels, which use mild acids like alpha-hydroxy acid to gently exfoliate. It only penetrates the outermost layer of skin.
• Medium peels, which use trichloroacetic or glycolic acid to reach the middle and outer layer of skills. This makes it more effective for removing damaged skin cells.
• Deep peels, which fully penetrate the middle layer of the skin to remove damaged skin cells; these peels often use phenol or tricholoracetic acid.

How much do chemical peels cost?

Chemical peels are almost always considered a cosmetic procedure, and insurance rarely covers it. You’ll be paying for the procedure out of pocket. Your initial consultation visit, however, may be covered by insurance.

The cost of the procedure will vary depending on factors like location, expertise of the provider, and what type of peel you want to get. Light peels can cost as low as $150, and deep peels can cost $3,000 or more (specifically if it requires anesthesia, or in-patient stays). According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the current average cost of a chemical peel is $673.

How is a chemical peel done?

Chemical peels are typically done in-office; deep peels may be done in an outpatient surgical facility. Before the procedure, they will likely have you tie back your hair. Your face will be cleaned, and eye protection like goggles or gauze may be applied.

Your doctor may numb the area with a topical anesthetic, especially if you’re receiving a deep peel. For deep peels, your doctor may also use a regional anesthetic, which will numb large areas. They are particularly likely to do this if you’re having your face and neck treated. For deep peels, you’ll also be given an IV, and your heart rate will be closely monitored.

Light peel

During a light peel a cotton ball, gauze, or brush will be used to apply a chemical solution like salicylic acid to the area being treated. The skin will start to whiten, and may have a slight stinging sensation. Once complete, the chemical solution will be removed or a neutralizing solution will be added.

Medium peel

During a medium chemical peel, your doctor will use a gauze, special sponge, or a cotton-tipped applicator to apply the chemical solution to your face. This may contain glycolic acid or trichloroacetic acid. A blue color may be added to the trichloroacetic acid, commonly known as a blue peel. The skin will begin to whiten, and your doctor will apply a cool compress to the skin. You may feel stinging or burning for up to 20 minutes. No neutralizing solution is needed, though they may give you a hand-held fan to cool your skin. If you’ve had the blue peel you will have a blue coloring of your skin that may last for several days after the peel.

Deep peel

During a deep chemical peel, you will be sedated. The doctor will use a cotton-tipped applicator to apply phenol to your skin. This will turn your skin white or gray. The procedure will be done in 15-minute portions, to limit the skin exposure to the acid.

How do you prepare for a chemical peel?

Before your procedure, you’ll first have a consultation with the skin care specialist. During this visit, they’ll help you determine what the best treatment option is for you. They’ll let you know the details about the specific peel you’ll be getting, and they’ll ask about anything that could interfere with the peel. This may include whether you’ve taken acne medication, and information about whether or not you scar easily.

Before a chemical peel, you must:

• not use any type of retinol or retin-A topical medication for at least 48 hours
• inform your skin care specialist about any medications you take
• not have been on Accutane for at least six months

Your doctor may also recommend that you:

• take an antiviral medication if you have a history of fever blisters or cold sores to prevent a breakout around the mouth
• use special lotions to improve treatment, like glycolic acid lotion
• use a retinoid cream to prevent skin darkening
• stop waxing, epilating, or using depilatory hair removal products the week before the peel. You should also avoid hair bleaching.
• stop using facial scrubs and exfoliants the week before the peel.
• arrange for a ride home, especially for medium or deep chemical peels, which will require you to be sedated.

If your doctor prescribes a painkiller or sedative, take it according to their instructions; you’ll likely have to take it before you come to the office.

What are the risks and possible side effects of a chemical peel?

Common side effects are temporary, and include redness, dryness, stinging or burning, and slight swelling. With deep peels, you may permanently lose the ability to tan.

Chemical peels can, however, have more serious risks and dangerous side effects that can be permanent. These include:

• Darkening or lightening of the skin color. These can be more common in people with darker skin.
• Scarring. This can be permanent.
• Infections. People with herpes simplex may experience flares following a treatment. Very rarely, chemical peels can cause fungal or bacterial infections.
• Heart, liver, or kidney damage. The phenol used in deep peels can actually damage the heart muscle, kidneys, and liver, and cause irregular heartbeats.

What to expect after

Recovery time varies depending on which chemical peel you received.

Light chemical peels

Recovery time is about four to seven days. Your skin may temporarily be lighter or darker.

Medium chemical peels

Your skin will recover about five to seven days after a medium chemical peel, though you may have redness that persists for months. Your skin will initially swell, and then form crusts and brown blotches before revealing new skin.

Deep chemical peels

Deep chemical peels will cause severe swelling and redness, with burning or throbbing sensations. It’s common for the eyelids to swell shut. It will take about two weeks for the new skin to develop, though white spots or cysts may last several weeks. It’s common for redness to last for several months.

During recovery, follow your doctor’s postop instructions faithfully. They’ll give you specific instructions for how often to wash your face and moisturize, and which products you should use to do so. Try to stay out of the sun until your skin has healed, and avoid using makeup or other cosmetics until your doctor gives you the go-ahead. You can use ice packs for 20 minutes at a time, or a cool fan, to help relieve discomfort at home.

Chemical Peel For Acne Dermatologist

For the best results, your dermatologist will perform several peels over several weeks. Deep chemical peels happen once and require an extended healing period. After the full treatment, chemical peels remove damaged skin and clears up your acne.

Acne, known as acne vulgaris, happens when your pores become clogged with excess oil dirt, dead skin cells, or bacteria. In some cases, these clogged pores can cause inflammation. Acne is more common in teenagers and young adults. However, some older women can develop acne. The result could be a raised bumps that can manifest in different ways, including:

Papules or small, tender, red bumps.
Pustules or pimples with pus at the tips
Whiteheads or blackheads are closed or open clogged pores.
Large nodules or cystic acne
Over time, if left untreated, large nodules or cystic acne scars can form. Your acne could be due to hormones, genetics, stress, diet, or the side effect of certain medications. Most cases respond well to over-the-counter medication and prescription medication. However, some patients with mild to moderate acne and scars need more help.

Let’s peel the curtain back on chemical peels.

Chemical peels are special acid solutions applied to the face by a board-certified dermatologist or certified esthetician. When applied correctly, the acid solution damages and removes the top layer of dull skin over 2 weeks (or sometimes more). The peel reveals smooth, healthier skin underneath. Chemical peels have been around for several decades and treat a range of skin conditions. These include:

Hyperpigmentation (dark spots), sun spots, age spots, and liver spots
Uneven skin tone
Melasma
Fine lines and wrinkles
Rough skin or a dull complexion
Scars
Acne
Chemical peels happen in several sessions and can treat even deep acne scars. Your dermatologist will use different types of peels to target different layers of your skin.

Type of chemical peels

Our skin has different layers, namely the stratum corneum, epidermis, dermis, and subcutaneous tissue. As a result, different chemical peels impact our skin at different depths. There are three types of peels your dermatologist can perform.

A superficial or lunchtime peel targets the top layer or epidermis. These peels have minimal downtime and take just a few minutes (hence the name lunchtime peel since patients tend to do them on their lunch break). These are perfect for minor skin issues.
Medium-depth peel goes a bit deeper into the epidermis and impacts part of the dermis. This peel helps with deeper issues like wrinkles and scarring.
A deep chemical peel is a specific peel used for severe skin conditions. These peels impact the deeper layers of the dermis and require lengthy downtime. Deep peels happen under anesthesia and need extensive skincare before and after the procedure. Common reasons for deep peels include sun damage, scars, blotchy skin, and pre-cancerous growths.
Your dermatologist will use different types of acids for each peel at different concentrations. These peels also work well for the different types of acne. However, your dermatologist will perform an individual, detailed skin examination first to determine the right peel for you.

The benefits of chemical peels on acne

For the best results, your dermatologist will perform several peels over several weeks. Deep chemical peels happen once and require an extended healing period. After the full treatment, chemical peels remove damaged skin and clears up your acne. There are some hidden extras in your chemical peel too. For instance, your peel will improve the absorption of future topical treatments you’ll use to keep your acne at bay.

Chemical peels also reduce pore size and may decrease sebum production, the oil that causes acne. That means long-term, you’ll get fewer acne breakouts. And who wouldn’t love a fresh new face? In addition, clearing up your acne brings back your confidence in ways you did not think were possible.

How to treat acne with a chemical peel

After your initial consultation, we will decide on the type of peel that’s best to treat your acne. In the weeks leading up to your first chemical peel, you may be prescribed topical medication to prepare the skin for your peel. These could be a combination of hydroquinone and tretinoin, along with lower strength alpha-hydroxy acids. Follow all instructions before your peel, such as avoiding excess sun exposure, makeup, and exfoliating.

On the day of your treatment, your dermatologist or aesthetician will first cleanse your face. Then, the prepared chemical solution is placed on the face with an applicator, making sure to avoid your hair and eyes. After the peel stays on for a few minutes, the chemical is deactivated with a neutralizer to prevent burning. The total process takes less than 20 minutes. For deeper peels, the process can take a bit longer. For the best results, you will need a series of chemical peels over 2 to 3 months.

Which chemical peel is good for acne?

Your doctor will perform either a superficial or medium-depth peel to treat your acne. Superficial peels can help mild acne, improves your skin texture and tone. Medium peels will help moderate to severe acne scars, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation. Your superficial peel can be one of the following:

Glycolic acid: Belonging to a group of alpha-hydroxy acids, glycolic acid is perfect for superficial peels. It helps with exfoliation while increasing collagen production. Glycolic acid also reduces inflammation and works on all skin types. The superficial peel will start at 20% strength.
Salicylic acid: This is a beta-hydroxy acid naturally sourced from willow tree bark that can provide deep exfoliation while treating acne. It can also improve hydration, keeping your pores clear for longer, which means fewer breakouts.
Jessner’s Solution: This is a combination of lactic acid (14%), salicylic acid (14%), and resorcinol (14%).
Lactic Acid: Lactic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid that provides a light peel of the epidermis. This acid can be combined with others for a more effective treatment.
Mandelic Acid: This is another alpha-hydroxy acid that helps with exfoliation and is perfect for mild to moderate acne. Studies show that mandelic acid also contains antibacterial properties. In some cases, your dermatologist will combine mandelic acid with salicylic acid.
Trichloroacetic acid (TCA): A specially made acid that can be used to perform peels at all levels.
Medium peels can fall under one of the following:

TCA between 35% to 40%
Glycolic acid at 35% or higher
Or a combination of acids to create a more effective solution.

What about deep peels?

Some patients are candidates for deep chemical peels. These candidates will have severe cystic acne or deep acne scars. Deep peels contain phenol or TCA beyond 50%. Phenol, in particular, is known for its ability to treat deep-seated acne and acne scars. If you’re a candidate for a deep peel, follow your doctor’s instructions for the best results.

Aftercare and possible side effects.

Your dermatologist will also provide aftercare treatment and instructions to support healing and accelerate results. These include:

Applying sunscreen and moisturizers as often as possible.
Your skin may appear a bit worse before it gets better.
Using the prescribed topical treatments to maintain skin health.
Avoid wearing makeup, tanning, or excess sun exposure for at least 48 hours.
Avoid intense physical activity for at least 24 hours.
You’ll feel tempted to pick or pull at your skin when it peels. Picking your skin can cause irritation or transfer dirt from your hands to your face.
We will recommend additional treatment for deep acne scars, which can include laser therapy, medication (steroid injections or retinol), microneedling, and much more.

Who should get chemical peels?

Anyone who wants to get a brighter, even glowing complexion should get a peel. If you have a history of keloids or very sensitive skin, be sure to let your dermatologist know this.

And who shouldn’t get a peel?

Despite the effectiveness of chemical peels, the procedure is not for everyone. Based on your medical history, we’ll determine if this is the best route to deal with acne. Reasons you should not get a chemical peel include:

A current or previous bacterial or fungal infection
Taking medication to treat these infections
Patients who’ve used a prescription medication to treat acne within the last year
A history of irregular scarring, or keloids
Current immune-related diseases
Patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid peels just to be safe.
Patients with unrealistic expectations about the process may not be good candidates. You may need a holistic approach that includes multiple peels. For most patients, a completely acne-free face would not happen after one peel.
Make sure to raise any concerns before attempting a chemical peel. your dermatologist will advise you if the peel is right for you and provide alternatives if it’s not the right fit.

A note about skin of color

Regardless of your skin type or color, you can suffer from acne. When it comes to chemical peels, however, special considerations must be made for patients of color. There is a common misconception that darker skin tones should not get chemical peels. Because of the excess melanin production, some chemical peels expose these skin types to a condition called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

Dermatologists are becoming more and more equipped to deal with skin of all shades. For darker skin types, we will stick to superficial peels. You’ll likely get one of the following peels:

A glycolic acid peel at 20% concentration
A salicylic acid peel at 20% concentration
TCA between 10% and 30%
Jessner’s solution
A combination of other acids such as mandelic acid or lactic acid.
Dermatologists will start at the lowest concentrations possible, slowly working up to stronger peels to gauge the skin’s reaction. Patients with lighter skin tones can benefit from medium peels. However, deep peels are not suitable for dark skin. These peels can cause significant damage to the skin. Follow the advice of your dermatologist for the best acne treatment for dark skin.

Chemical peels have been around in one form or another for centuries.

They’ve maintained their popularity because they’re so effective, helping to reveal healthy, radiant, youthful-looking skin. But there still seems to be a lot of confusion surrounding how a chemical peel works and what the chemical peel process looks like day by day. 

Here’s what you can expect before, during and after your chemical peel treatment.

What is a chemical peel, exactly?

Chemical peels are non-invasive cosmetic procedures that use a combination of powerful, skin-safe acids. These acids work together to break down the top few layers of the epidermis, exfoliating the skin and leaving behind the healthier layers underneath. 

The chemical peel process takes anywhere from one to seven days, depending on how “heavy” of a peel you have performed. The chemical peel we offer at Skin Pharm is a medium-depth (or TCA) peel. This peel uses a mix of alpha and beta hydroxy acids (AHAs and BHAs, including lactic acid and salicylic acid), retinoic acid and trichloroacetic acid to achieve the final results. 

What concerns do chemical peels tackle?

Chemical peels are excellent for taking on a variety of skin care concerns, including:

• Chronic sun damage
• Hyperpigmentation (brown spots)
• Melasma
• Scarring
• Acne
• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Uneven skin tone or texture
• Large, visible pores

While you’ll start to see results after a single chemical peel, the effects are cumulative, meaning maximum benefits are noticeable after a series of peels.

What should I do to prep for my chemical peel?

The prep for a chemical peel starts with timing. We recommend that you schedule your chemical peel at least two weeks before any major events, as the expected side effects are most noticeable during that period. 

You want your skin to be as healthy as possible. A week before your appointment, you should avoid doing anything that irritates your skin. This includes tanning, laser procedures, waxing, using depilatory creams, tweezing and using skin care products with topical retinoids.

If you’re experiencing any rash or viral outbreaks on your face, you may need to reschedule your appointment. Doing a chemical peel with either of those factors can potentially worsen the issue.

How does the chemical peel application work?

Before your chemical peel day-to-day process starts, you’ll need to have your provider apply the treatment. People often have many concerns about what it will feel like to get a peel done and if it’ll hurt. We recommend scheduling a consultation before having a chemical peel to discuss what to expect and answer any questions you may have. 

When you arrive at the clinic, the first step is to wash your face. Washing your face removes any layers of dead skin cells, makeup and other debris (like skin care products) that may still be sitting on your skin. The result is a clear surface, ready to accept the peel without any barriers in its way. 

(Different skin care practices can perform different depths of chemical peels, and the “deeper” the peel, the more discomfort you are likely to feel.) Skin Pharm’s medium-depth chemical peel isn’t uncomfortable, though — most people describe the sensation as “tingling,” “warm” or “tight.” To help with any potential stinging during the treatment, we provide our patients with a handheld fan, too.

Day one post-chemical peel

After your chemical peel is complete and you leave the office, what should you expect on day one?

You’ll leave the clinic with the peel solution still on your face, and you’ll notice your complexion take on a yellow hue throughout the day. (Not to worry — this means it’s working!) After a few hours, you’ll apply the retinol crème your provider sent you home with.

You might notice some redness and sensitivity as the retinol gets to work. Many people describe the feeling as similar to having a sunburn. However, the telltale peeling that comes with a chemical peel won’t start for another day or so.

WHAT TO AVOID THE DAY OF YOUR CHEMICAL PEEL—

While your skin is still healing, keep a few factors in mind. Your skin is incredibly raw and sensitive, and it needs additional protection. To protect it and maximize your results, you should avoid any strenuous exercise or activities that lead to sweating. 

In addition, try to stay out of the sun as much as possible and wear sunscreen (with at least an SPF of 30) if you can’t avoid it entirely. 

You’ll also want to avoid letting your skin dry out. Although applying product to raw skin can feel uncomfortable, it needs moisture to heal. Allowing your skin to dry too much can lengthen the healing process and make it more likely that your skin will scab or even scar. 

Day two post-chemical peel

Day two of the chemical peel process day to day is where you’ll likely start to see your skin peel. The top layers of your skin are beginning to dehydrate and slough off, and you’ll see this more often start between the eyes and in the corners of the nose and mouth. 

Although it may be tempting, resist the urge to help your skin peel manually. Wash your skin gently and follow up with a stronger moisturizer, like Recovery Lotion.

For many people, the redness they experience in the first few days is enough to keep them home from work and social events. Expect that your skin will react this way, and don’t schedule anything significant in the few days directly after your chemical peel. 

If you deal with breakouts, you may experience some “purging” of any blemishes present under the surface before your peel. While this isn’t common, it is possible to start with a new retinol skin care product. 

Day three and four post-chemical peel

Day three and four are when you will likely experience the worst peeling and flaking. Your skin is most likely to feel uncomfortable these days — and it’s also at its most vulnerable. Follow your provider’s skin care recommendations carefully, as they are designed to help protect your skin and assist it with its natural healing process.

Now, more than ever, your skin needs to be protected. You may even want to wear a sun protective hat along with your sunscreen to make sure your skin stays safe and doesn’t burn. Doing that keeps your healing process moving forward.

Don’t be surprised if you notice more peeling in certain areas of your face than in others. This is normal and doesn’t indicate any problem with your skin’s healing process. 

Day seven post-chemical peel

A week after your chemical peel is performed, you’ll finally be able to start seeing your results. This is where all of the flaking, peeling and redness starts to pay off. (Professionals consider the results of a chemical peel permanent, so enjoy that new skin you’re starting to see!)

Depending on how well or quickly your skin is healing, you can usually return to your normal skincare routine a week or so after your chemical peel. 

Make sure that your skin is completely done peeling before using any harsher or more abrasive skin care products, as the skin may still be sensitive. When your skin stops feeling as tight and dry, you should be ok to switch back. 

Our post-chemical peel skin care routine is excellent for helping your skin to heal, but it isn’t meant for long-term use for most of our patients. Unless you have dry, sensitive skin, prolonged use can lead to breakouts or oily-looking skin. 

Chemical Peel For Hyperpigmentation

A chemical peel uses acids at stronger concentrations to treat the desired area of skin. They reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation by removing the top layer of your skin (epidermis). Deeper versions may also penetrate the middle layer of your skin (dermis) to produce more dramatic results.

Although many chemical peels are available OTC, you might consider getting a professional-grade peel at your dermatologist’s office. These are more powerful, and they yield quicker results.

Due to their strength, in-office peels may also increase your risk for side effects. Talk with your dermatologist about your individual risks.

Possible risks with both at-home and in-office chemical peels includeTrusted Source:

redness
irritation
blistering
infection
scarring
allergic reaction
If you’re out in the sun on a regular basis, chemical peels may not be the best treatment option for you. Chemical peels cause your skin to be more sensitive to the sun’s rays.

If you don’t adequately apply sunscreen and use other UV protection, the sun may worsen your hyperpigmentation. You’ll need to take extra precautions for at least one week after your last chemical peel.

Who should try this?
Chemical peels may work if you have:

age spots
sun damage
melasma
blotchy skin
They also work best for fairer skin tones, and they may provide faster results than face acid products.

What products can you try?
If you’re looking for a professional-grade peel to use at home, consider a glycolic acid peel from Exuviance. This product may be used up to twice a week. It can also help reduce the appearance of wrinkles.

If you have a darker skin tone or want a stronger peel, talk with your dermatologist. They can discuss the professional peels that they have available and help you decide on the right peel for you.

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4. Laser peel (skin resurfacing)
   A laser peel (resurfacing) treatment uses targeted beams of light to reduce hyperpigmentation.

There are two types of lasers: ablative and non-ablative.

Ablative lasers are the most intense, and they involve removing layers of your skin. Non-ablative procedures, on the other hand, target the dermis to promote collagen growth and tightening effects.

Ablative lasers are stronger, but they may cause more side effects. Both destroy elements in your skin to ensure that new skin cells grow back tighter and more toned.

Who should try this?
There isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach to skin resurfacing.

Ablative lasers may work better for people with fair skin. For some people, non-ablative versions may cause the skin to darken instead of lighten.

Your dermatologist will work with you to assess your discoloration and overall skin tone to select the best option for your skin.

5. Intense pulse light therapy (IPL)
   IPL therapy is a type of non-ablative (fractional) laser treatment. Also known as a photofacial, IPL therapy stimulates collagen growth within the dermis. It usually requires multiple sessions.

IPL is used for overall pigmentation issues, but flat spots especially respond to this treatment. It may also help reduce the appearance of wrinkles, spider veins, and enlarged pores.

Who should try this?
According to the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS), IPL works best for people with fair skin.

6. Microdermabrasion
   Microdermabrasion is an in-office procedure used to treat hyperpigmentation that affects the epidermis only (superficial scarring).

During the procedure, your dermatologist will use a drill-like handheld tool with a wire brush or another abrasive attachment. The tool is then swiped across your skin to rapidly — but gently — remove the epidermis.

You may need multiple sessions to achieve your ideal result.

Who should try this?
Microdermabrasion works best on superficial scars. Your dermatologist can help you determine whether this treatment is right for you.

It also works well for people with fairer skin.

7. Dermabrasion
   Dermabrasion also involves the removal of your epidermis, but its effects continue down to a part of your dermis.

While dermabrasion is sometimes used to smooth out wrinkles, the procedure has been historically used to address texture concerns. These include:

acne scars
age spots
chickenpox scars
injury scars
sun damage
As with microdermabrasion, your dermatologist will use a drill-like handheld tool with a wire brush or other abrasive attachment. They’ll move the tool across your skin to rapidly — but gently — remove your entire epidermis and the top part of your dermis.

Who should try this?
Dermabrasion may be a good option if you’re looking to decrease pigmentation at a faster rate than microdermabrasion.

It works best for fairer skin. However, further hyperpigmentation as a result of the procedure can occur with all skin types. The new patches of hyperpigmentation may lighten after about eight weeks.

8. Lightening creams
   Lightening creams are over-the-counter (OTC) treatments that work with select ingredients to help decrease pigmentation. Many of these creams are available in stronger prescription forms.

They’re usually applied once or twice a day to help lighten the skin over time. Topical treatments for lightening also come in gel form.

Common ingredients found in OTC lightening products include:

licorice extract
vitamin B-3 (niacinamide)
Who should try this?
Lightening creams or gels work best for flat spots, such as melasma or age spots. They’re effective for patches of discoloration on most skin types.

Online retailers make it easy to access beauty and skin care products that you wouldn’t otherwise be able to access. You should only purchase products from retailers and manufacturers that you trust.

What products can you try?
OTC products are accessible (and sometimes more affordable) options for hyperpigmentation, but these can take longer than professional treatments.

Look for creams with ingredients like niacinamide.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends using caution when purchasing OTC skin lighteners, as they may contain traces of mercuryTrusted Source.

What works best for each skin tone?
Skin tone can play a role in the intensity and length of hyperpigmentation treatments. As noted by Dr. Cynthia Cobb, DNP, APRN, WHNP-BC, MEP-C, people with fair, medium, and dark skin tones can use some of the same therapies, but people with darker skin need more time for the treatment to work.

Fair skin responds well to most hyperpigmentation procedures.

The following might be off limits if you tan easily or have darker skin:

high-beam lasers
IPL therapy
Medium skin tones may find the following options helpful:

chemical peels
microdermabrasion

Your skin is far less flaky and sensitive by this point in your chemical peel journey. However, because your skin has gone through a process meant to safely “damage” your skin so that it looks better than ever, there may still be some noticeable healing going on. 

More sensitive areas of your skin may start to crust and scab or even have a noticeable color change. Usually, this process is complete around two weeks after your chemical peel. However, some redness may persist for months, especially in hotter weather or when you exercise. 

For those who desire an individualized, effective treatment for skin issues, at Bentley Skincare and Wellness in Springfield, MO, we offer customized chemical peels targeted to your particular skincare need. So, how long does it take to recover from a chemical peel? There are a whole host of skincare issues that people commonly deal with, so the peel that is recommended for you will be based on your specific skin type.

Your skin may be dry, oily, normal, or sensitive. You may struggle with issues such as scarring, hyperpigmentation, sun damage, or aging skin. Whatever your issue, there is a peel that will work for you, and your recovery time will depend on the type of peel you choose. No matter the regimen that is prescribed, however, your treatment will consist of a pre-peel plan, the peel itself, and a post-treatment plan to promote your skin’s healthy recovery.

What Is a Chemical Peel?

In simple terms, a chemical peel consists of applying a peeling agent to your skin. Although the peeling agent may be left on for as few as three to five minutes or as long as up to an hour, depending on the type of peel, it encourages your skin to shed its outer layer over a period of days.

As a result, new skin growth is promoted over a period of days. The skin will now appear more even in texture, and improvements in pigmentation, scarring, fine lines, and wrinkles will be seen. Skin impurities will be drawn out, and overall, you will notice a brighter, fresher, more rejuvenated appearance.

Types of Peels

Since everyone’s skin is different, the type of peel that is recommended for you will vary depending on your skin type and any issues you may be having. There are several types of peels available, some of which contain Jessner’s solution, trichloroacetic acid (TCA), or retinol.

There are also peel alternatives, or masks, that help facilitate the peeling and rejuvenation process as well. While most peels are applied to the face, they can also be used to promote better skin texture on the back, chest, neck, shoulders, and upper arms.

Peels Containing Jessner’s Solution

Formulated decades ago by German-American dermatologist Dr. Max Jessner, peels containing Jessner’s solution have been shown to improve the appearance of all skin types. Peels with Jessner’s solution can reduce dark patches, age spots, scarring, and discoloration as they promote a bright, even skin tone. Overall, the skin will appear refreshed and revitalized.

If your skin is oily or sensitive, a PCA Peel® (Physicians Care Alliance) that is hydroquinone-free may be ideal for you. It has been found to even skin tone while improving skin that is prone to breakouts. For those patients with normal skin, a PCA Peel® with hydroquinone will brighten and rejuvenate skin while removing discoloration.

If your skin is in need of more potent treatment, a PCA Peel® with hydroquinone and resorcinol can improve the skin’s appearance, as it reduces damage due to the sun or scarring due to acne.

Peels Containing TCA

Many peels nowadays contain TCA. Designed for all skin types, including highly sensitive skin, Sensi Peel® is a gentle treatment that promotes improved skin texture and a reduction in fine lines and wrinkles. For those with mature skin, Ultra Peel® I will also provide brighter, more youthful-looking skin as it minimized lines and wrinkles.

If your skin is rather resilient, the Ultra Peel Forte® may be ideal for you. This potent product brightens and restores while it promotes a younger-looking appearance. Finally, the Smoothing Body Peel® is designed to improve the texture and tone of the thicker skin of your body.

Retinoid Treatments

There are two types of treatments available that contain retinol. The 4% Pure Retinol Peel revitalizes skin as it smooths and brightens by increasing new cell growth.

The Advanced Treatment Booster is designed to promote an increase in exfoliation, all the while soothing and reducing redness in the skin of all types. This particular peel will also restore keratinization, which helps protect skin and acts as a barrier.

Peel Alternatives/Masks

There are several alternative peels or masks from which to choose, and each targets a different skin type. For patients with dry skin, the Therapeutic Oat Milk Mask Treatment is designed to hydrate and soothe dull, dry skin. If your skin tends to stay in the normal range, the Therapeutic Papaya Mask can brighten skin tone, rejuvenate, and refresh.

In addition, several treatments are available for oily skin, all of which detoxify, purify, and calm the skin. The Detox Gel Deep Pore Treatment, the Therapeutic Salicylic Acid Mask, and the Therapeutic Charcoal Mask are all offered by our office.

Before the Peel

Eligibility

Prior to undergoing any sort of chemical treatment, it is imperative that our doctors determine if the peel is right for you. In order to determine eligibility, we need to make sure that you are not breastfeeding or pregnant and have no skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, or rosacea.

In addition, if you have an outdoor job, a peel might not be appropriate for you, just as those with a history of poor wound healing should probably not undergo such treatment. Finally, if you are receiving treatment for acne, you should avoid a peel while undergoing this treatment.