What To Know About Chemical Peel Mask
Chemical peels are one of the most popular skin treatments in the world. They’re used to improve the appearance of your skin, and can be used for everything from acne scars to fine lines and wrinkles. Chemical peels are also a good way to treat other skin conditions like hyperpigmentation and melasma.
But what exactly is a chemical peel? How do they work, and how do you know which type of peel is right for you? Here’s everything you need to know!
Chemical soft peels are an effective way for regaining a healthy and beautiful skin. They remove damaged skin cells, eliminate the dead skin, on top of that they promote new cell growth. This article will help you make the right decision when it comes to chemical peeling. Read on to learn more on chemical peeling at home and chemical peel for hyperpigmentation.
What To Know About Chemical Peel Mask
So, you made an appointment for a chemical peel. Good for you! Not only are they important in maintaining the health of your skin, but they are also one of the most effective facial treatments there is. Chemical peels can be used to correct issues such as uneven tone, fine lines and wrinkles, dark spots and even acne. Another wonderful asset of chemical peeling is that there is a peel available for most every skin type.
So, you made an appointment for a chemical peel. Good for you! Not only are they important in maintaining the health of your skin, but they are also one of the most effective facial treatments there is. Chemical peels can be used to correct issues such as uneven tone, fine lines and wrinkles, dark spots and even acne. Another wonderful asset of chemical peeling is that there is a peel available for almost every skin type.
But now what? A lot of people are intimidated by chemical peels. And while there really isn’t a need to be, there are a few things one needs to know beforehand to ensure the best experience (and results!) possible.
9 Things You Should Know Before Getting a Chemical Peel:
1. HAVING YOUR SKIN IN GREAT SHAPE BEFORE THE PEEL IS IMPERATIVE.
Sure you can get a peel without healthy skin, but if you really want great results, healthy is definitely better. Theraderm’s Skin Renewal System will have your skin in tip-top shape and ready for any facial procedure.
2. PEELING IS NOTHING MORE THAN EXFOLIATION.
It seems kind of scary to have your skin flaking off, but this is the only way to get down to the newer, healthier skin. If you would like to speed up the peeling process so you don’t have as much downtime, you can use Nupeel Enzyme Peeling Gel. Not only does it speed the process, but it also adds much-needed micronutrients to the skin.
3. USING A SKIN BRIGHTENER 2 WEEKS PRIOR CAN HELP REDUCE YOUR RISK OF POST-PROCEDURE HYPERPIGMENTATION.
Theraderm’s Enlighten Skin Brightener helps suppress melanin production after a peel to ensure dark spots don’t pop up afterward. This is particularly effective for those with darker skin.
4. ASK YOUR SKIN PROFESSIONAL WHICH PEEL IS RIGHT FOR YOU.
You may not want to visibly see the exfoliation process (zero downtime) so a 70% lactic acid peel may be better for you! Peeling doesn’t bother you? A Jessner’s Peel or TCA may be what you are looking for. Make sure you let your skin care professional what makes you most comfortable.
5. CHEMICAL PEELS ARE NOT JUST FOR YOUR FACE.
That’s right! Don’t save all the good stuff for your face. Peels can also be applied to your hands and chest to remove dark spots or acne trouble spots like chest and back. A Jessner’s Peel on your feet will leave them as soft as a baby’s behind!
6. GO IN WITH REALISTIC EXPECTATIONS.
If you have raised scarring, a chemical peel isn’t going to remove it. If you have several years of damage on your skin, a single peel isn’t going to remove that, either. It will, however, smooth, tighten and brighten your skin leaving you with a more youthful appearance.
7. ONE PEEL ISN’T GOING TO DO THE TRICK.
Unless you opt for a deeper TCA peel, one isn’t going to give you the results you want. A series is by far the best way to get optimal results. Your skin care professional can you determine what type of series would be best for you.
8. SUNSCREEN SHOULD BE YOUR BEST FRIEND.
You already know how we feel about wearing sunscreen every day anyway, but after a chemical peel, it is a necessity to maintain your results. Platinum Protection Facial Sunscreen is the perfect choice because it is broad-spectrum and oil-free so you can easily wear it under your makeup.
9. YOUR SKIN CARE PROFESSIONAL SHOULD PREP YOUR SKIN PRIOR TO APPLYING THE PEELING SOLUTION.
You want the solution to be applied directly to your skin so you can get even results. They should exfoliate your skin with Nupeel Enzyme Peeling Gel to remove any loose, dead skin cells, first.
Chemical Peel For Hyperpigmentation
Chemical peel. 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.
A chemical peel uses a chemical solution to remove layers of skin, revealing the more youthful skin underneath. Chemical peels can reduce or improve fine lines and wrinkles, acne, scars, uneven skin coloring and other skin imperfections. Different chemicals determine the depth of your peel and type of skin condition treated.
What is a chemical peel?
A chemical peel, also known as chemexfoliation or dermapeeling, uses a chemical solution to improve the appearance of your skin. In this treatment, a chemical solution is applied to your skin, which causes trauma or injury to your skin’s layers. The skin layers eventually peel off revealing more youthful skin. The new skin is usually smoother with fewer lines and wrinkles, has a more even color and is brighter in complexion.
What conditions does a chemical peel treat?
Chemical peels are used to treat certain skin conditions or to improve your appearance by improving the tone and texture of your skin.
Chemical peels are most commonly performed on your face, neck or hands. They can help reduce or improve:
- Fine lines under your eyes or around your mouth and wrinkling caused by sun damage, aging and hereditary factors.
- Certain types of acne.
- Mild scarring.
- Sun spots, age spots, liver spots, freckles, uneven skin coloring.
- Precancerous scaly spots called actinic keratosis.
- Rough skin, scaly patches, dull complexion.
- Dark patches (melasma) due to pregnancy or taking birth control pills.
You will work with your dermatologist to determine the depth of your peel. This joint decision can vary depending upon the condition of your skin and the objectives of treatment.
Sags, bulges, deep scars, deep facial lines and more severe wrinkles don’t respond well to chemical peels. If these are your concerns, other cosmetic surgical procedures, such as carbon dioxide laser resurfacing, a face lift, brow lift, eye lift or soft tissue filler will be better options. A dermatologic surgeon can help determine the best treatment for your concerns.
Is a chemical peel good for all skin types?
Generally, superficial peels can be used on all skin types. However, if you have a darker skin tone, you have a greater risk of experiencing a darkening of your skin after treatment. This condition is called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. If you have a naturally darker skin tone, you may want to get the advice of your dermatologist about other less aggressive treatments to reduce the risk of hyperpigmentation.
Chemical peeling may also not be recommended if you:
- Have a history of abnormal skin scarring.
- Have extra coloring in your scars.
- Have skin conditions or take medications that make your skin more sensitive.
- Can’t stay out of the sun for the healing period.
PROCEDURE DETAILS
How are chemical peels performed?
A chemical peel can be performed in a doctor’s office or in a surgery center as an outpatient procedure. Your skin will be thoroughly cleansed with an agent that removes excess oils, while your eyes and hair are protected. A chemical solution is then applied to your skin. Chemical solutions typically used include glycolic acid, trichloroacetic acid, salicylic acid, lactic acid or carbolic acid (phenol). The different types of chemicals cause a controlled injury, each penetrating through to a different skin depth, then peeling away to reveal a new layer of skin.
The different chemical solutions provide different results. The choice of chemical depends on your goal. You will work with your dermatologist to determine the depth of your peel.
- A light (“lunchtime”) chemical peel provides subtle improvement over time and is often done in a series. The outermost layer of skin is removed. This choice may be best if you have fine wrinkling, acne, uneven skin coloring or dry, rough sun-damaged skin to help promote a healthy glow. Recovery from this type of peel may be within hours to a few days but with little to no down time.
- A medium chemical peel gives your skin a smooth, fresh look. The outermost layer and the upper part of your middle skin layer are removed. This choice may be best if you have uneven or moderate skin discoloring, age spots, acne scarring or fine-to-moderate wrinkles. Recovery from this type of peel may take a week or more and require some down time.
- A deep chemical peel produces the most dramatic results. This chemical penetrates down to the lower middle layer of your skin. Recovery time is longer with a deep peel. This choice may be best if you have moderate lines and wrinkles, extensive sun-damaged skin, deep acne scars, blotchy skin, and/or precancerous growths called actinic keratosis. A deep chemical peel requires pretreatment for up to eight weeks. Your doctor will provide specific instructions. A deep chemical peel is a one-time only treatment if applied to your face and does have significant down time.
To prepare for your chemical peel, some general instructions include:
- Avoid tanning and direct sun exposure for two weeks before each treatment.
- Apply topical products (such as hydroquinone) as instructed before treatment to prepare your skin.
- Don’t use any products containing retinoids (such as tretinoin) one to two weeks before treatment, unless your physician tells you differently.
- If you have been prescribed oral antibiotics or an oral antiviral medicine, start taking it at least 24 hours before your chemical peel.
- Peel areas must be free of any open sores, lesions or skin infections.
Your doctor will give you specific instructions for your peel type and your unique skin condition.
Day of peel: Your skin will be thoroughly cleaned. If you are having a deep chemical peel, you will receive general anesthesia (you will be asleep).
The procedure: During a chemical peel, solution is applied to your skin. You may feel a warm to somewhat hot sensation that will last a few minutes. This is followed by a stinging sensation. To relieve the sting, a cool compress may be applied your skin. The chemical is then washed off and/or neutralized.
RISKS / BENEFITS
What are the possible complications of chemical peels?
In certain skin types, there’s a risk of a temporary or permanent change in the color of your skin. Taking birth control pills, pregnancy or a family history of brownish discoloration on your face may increase your risk of developing abnormal pigmentation.
There’s also a low risk of scarring in certain areas of your face and certain individuals may be more prone to scarring. If scarring does occur, it can usually be treated with good results.
If you’ve had a history of herpes outbreaks, there’s a small chance of reactivating the cold sore. Your dermatologist can prescribe medication to reduce the chance of a flare up. Follow the instructions of your doctor.
Before your chemical peel, be sure to tell your dermatologist if you have a history of keloids (scar tissue overgrowth created at the site of a skin injury), any unusual scarring tendencies, any X-rays of your face or history of cold sores.
Infections are rare but still a risk.
RECOVERY AND OUTLOOK
What should I expect after the chemical peel?
What to expect varies depending on the depth of your chemical peel.
If you’ve had a light chemical peel:
- Expect a sunburn-like reaction to occur after your peel, meaning you’ll see redness followed by scaling that lasts between three and seven days.
- Apply lotion or cream as directed until your skin heals. After your skin heals, apply daily sunscreen.
- You can wear makeup immediately after treatment or the next day.
- Additional peels may be repeated every two to five weeks until you achieve your desired results. Typically three to five peels are needed to achieve your goal.
If you’ve had a medium chemical peel:
- Expect some redness, swelling, stinging and flaking of your skin. Swelling may last and/or worsen for 48 hours. Blisters can develop and will break open. Skin will crust and peel off over seven to 14 days.
- Perform daily soaks as directed by your doctor. Apply ointment after each soak. Apply lotion or cream daily. Don’t expose your skin to sunlight until completely healed.
- Antiviral medication will need to be taken for 10 to 14 days.
- You can wear makeup after five to seven days.
- Additional medium-depth peels may be repeated at six to 12 months intervals, if needed, to maintain results.
If you’ve had a deep chemical peel:
- The treatment area will be bandaged. Your bandages will be removed in a few days. Expect a healing time of 14 to 21 days.
- Perform daily soaks as directed by your doctor. Apply ointment after each soak. After 14 days, apply moisturizer as directed. Don’t expose your skin to sun for three to six months.
- Antiviral medication will need to be taken for 10 to 14 days.
- Wait at least 14 days before using any makeup.
- You can only have one deep peel performed on your face.
To get the best results, regardless of the depth of your peel, follow these tips:
- Don’t use a tanning bed or other type of indoor or even outdoor tanning while your skin is healing.
- After your skin heals, always apply a daily sunscreen.
- Apply a daily moisturizer, as directed, to keep your skin moist to prevent scarring.
Your new skin is fragile and more susceptible to complications. Your doctor will provide you with post-treatment instructions to reduce the chance of developing abnormal skin color after your peel and other complications.
If your skin itches, swells or burns, call your doctor. Scratching your skin could lead to an infection.
ADDITIONAL DETAILS
Is a chemical peel covered under insurance?
No, usually not. Chemical peels are considered a cosmetic treatment and therefore not covered by insurance.
Chemical Peel For Hyperpigmentation
Out with the old and in with the new. Chemical peels treat fine lines, wrinkles, sun damage, pore size, acne, pigmentation, and more. These aesthetic treatments are some of the most sought-after, and millions of people are already enjoying the life-changing benefits. At AURAE MD in La Jolla, CA, we offer the widest variety of peels to reveal a new, radiant, you. Read on to find the top ten benefits of chemical peels.
What Is a Chemical Peel?
A chemical peel is a powerful skin exfoliating solution applied to the face, neck, or hands to reveal the smooth and clear skin underneath. What makes this technique so popular is that it’s useful for a variety of skin concerns.
Are All Chemical Peels the Same?
No, there are different peels. Peels are generally classified by their ingredients. Each skin condition may respond differently to the ingredients in a peel. For example, wrinkles, pigment problems, and superficial blemishes respond very well to a stronger peel. Acne often responds best to salicylic acid peels.
Alpha-hydroxy (AHA), glycolic, lactic, or fruit acid peels are among the gentlest peels. Stronger options like trichloroacetic acid peels penetrate the skin more deeply and can rid the skin of wrinkles.
All peels can provide skin rejuvenating benefits, but your skin’s type and condition dictates which peel to use. Contacting Dr. Margo Aura Emami is the best way to find out which peel is right for you.
How Does a Chemical Peel Work?
The exact process varies depending on the chosen peel. Your skin is thoroughly cleansed and prepared for the treatment before the application of the peel. Next, a chemical solution is applied to your skin and left in place for a designated time. While you wait, the peel solution exfoliates the skin. Once the peel has completed its work, it is peeled away to reveal new, regenerated skin.
10 Top Benefits of Chemical Peels
There is a peel for all the most common skin concerns. Below are the top ten benefits of a chemical peel.
1. Treats Acne
Topical acne treatments can only go so far, and a peel exfoliates deeper. Getting a peel cleanses your skin more thoroughly and reveals a fresh new layer of skin, without the acne. Peels for acne work best when received in a series, and Dr. Margo Aura Emami can customize a peel schedule to help keep your skin blemish-free.
2. Minimizes Pores
Large pores are a common concern for many, and all who have them wish they’d go away. Removing the outer, often damaged layer of skin with a peel has the benefit of making pores look smaller.
3. Erases Fine Lines and Wrinkles
Nothing leaves us stuck in the past as much as lines on the skin. These reminders prevent us from living in—and fully enjoying—the present moment. When fine lines or wrinkles have got you down, peels come to the rescue. These chemical solutions can permanently remove fine lines and ease even the toughest wrinkles.
4. Fades Discoloration
You deserve to feel confident, vibrant, and beautiful. If sunspots, discoloration, and hyperpigmentation are getting in your way, a peel can help. Many clients find that a peel lifts discoloration from the skin for good.
5. Lifts Skin
When you don’t want the downtime of a facelift, a peel could be the right alternative for you. Skin lifting is one of the incredible benefits a peel offers.
6. Soothes Scarring
There is an implied permanence with scarring that isn’t accurate. Many scars from acne or anything else recede when exposed to the chemicals found in a peel.
7. Balances Texture
Uneven skin tone and blemishes add a dimension to the skin that many people don’t want. Peels bring balance to the overall texture of the skin.
8. Smooths Skin
Peels are best known for unparalleled skin-smoothing benefits. By lifting rigid layers of skin from the face, neck, or hands, the result is gorgeously smooth and touchable skin.
9. Non-Invasive Treatment
This treatment is one of the most effective options not requiring needles or surgery. Some clients pair this treatment with other treatments because of this. For others, it’s comforting to know that they can achieve their desired look without surgery.
10. AURAE MD Customizes
At AURAE MD, your peel is customized to ensure you get the most benefits from treatment. Whether you have a combination of concerns or a concern not listed above, there is a peel option for you.
Is There Anything to Avoid After a Chemical Peel?
After receiving any peel, it’s essential to avoid the sun while your skin heals.
Superficial Peels
Superficial peels take one to seven days to heal fully. Use lotion or cream on the skin while it heals. Wear sunscreen every day after your skin heals. You can wear makeup the day after your appointment.
Medium Peels
Medium peels take five to ten days to heal completely. The skin may peel during this time. If you have a history of cold sores, you may be advised to take antiviral medication during this time. Use a mild lotion or cream on the skin during the healing process. After five to seven days, you can wear makeup.