What To Know About Chemical Peel Products

What To Know About Chemical Peel Products

Chemical peels are a common procedure used to heal damaged skin and restore its youthful glow. Acne sufferers and people with uneven skin tone will benefit the most from them. They can help hydrate dry skin, making it look more supple and youthful, so they’re wonderful for those with dry skin, too.

A chemical peel is a treatment in which a chemical solution is given to the skin to exfoliate dead skin and stimulate the formation of new skin. The outcomes of a chemical peel are modifiable by the peel’s composition and the time it is left on the skin before being removed. Glycolic acid peels, salicylic acid peels, and trichloroacetic acid (TCA) peels are just a few examples of the many types of chemical peels available today. In terms of expected outcomes, each has its advantages and disadvantages.

Chemical peels are among the most commonly used skin-rejuvenation techniques. Using this cosmetic treatment, a chemical solution is applied to the face that causes a mild superficial burn. This burns away epidermis (main layer of skin) to reveal fresh, healthy skin beneath it. It is a simple procedure that can be done at home, in professional offices, or non-surgical spas. Read on to learn more on chemical peel side effects and chemical peeling at home.

What To Know About Chemical Peel Products

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 Peeling At Home

• Gently cleanse the skin and pat dry completely.
• Moisten a cotton pad with the peel solution and wipe over clean, dry skin, avoiding the area. Depending on potency, leave on for two to five minutes. …
• Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water followed with cool water.
• Gently cleanse the skin and pat dry completely.
• Moisten a cotton pad with the peel solution and wipe over clean, dry skin, avoiding the area. Depending on potency, leave on for two to five minutes. …
• Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water followed with cool water.

Remember that episode of Sex and the City when Samantha applied a face peel hours before Carrie’s book release party and her skin turned lobster-red and blotchy? Don’t let that scare you because today’s at-home chemical peels are nothing like what they used to be.

Less intense than in-office peels, at-home peels help break down the “glue” that keeps complexion-dulling dead skin cells hanging on. “Peels are intended to remove the outermost layer of dead skin cells, giving the face a smoother, more radiant appearance. They work to exfoliate top layers of cells and help clear up clogged pores, breakouts, dull skin, and dry skin,” explains dermatologist Dr. Howard Sobel. “They are also great for minimizing pores and diminishing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.”

To get the most out of an at-home peel without leaving your skin irritated from over-exfoliation, dermatologists recommend incorporating one into your regimen no more than twice a week. If you’re using a retinol product, take a break from it on the days that you use a peel, and be sure to follow up with a rich moisturizer and, of course, sunscreen. While peels are a good option for most skin types, those with very sensitive skin could experience irritation and should consult a dermatologist before incorporating peels into their routine to determine the best timing and ingredients to use to get the glowing results you crave.

“Home chemical peels have to be necessarily gentle, so they can be used safely and regularly,” says dermatologist Dr. Linda Chung Honet. “I like recommending them as a boosting treatment between professional treatments in the office.”

Home peels come in a variety of formulations, from disposable pads to masks to overnight serums. It is important to bear in mind that both “chemical” and “peel” are slight misnomers—many of the key acids you’ll find in these products are derived from fruit, and you should not actually see any peeling in your skin. If you do, you’ve overdone it. Best practice is to look for options with AHAs such as glycolic, lactic, and citric acids as well as brightening ingredients such as vitamin C and ferulic acid. Below we’ve rounded up some of the home treatments dermatologists recommend to give your skin the clean sweep.

The years of active breakouts may be behind you, but breaking up with acne is hard to do. Pimples may disappear, but all too often they leave behind an unfriendly reminder of their visit — acne scars.

Acne scars detract from your overall complexion, making many adults feel self-conscious about the way they look. Acne scars are stubborn, and home remedies, like over-the-counter bleaching agents, won’t do the trick. The good news is that acne scars are now treatable.

At Dontage Premier Aesthetic Anti-Aging Specialists in Falls Church, Virginia, we understand the frustration acne scars bring. Skin care specialist Waseem Garbia, PA-C, and his medical team provide warm, personalized care that’s customized to meet your unique skin care needs.

If you’re like most people with acne scars, you’ve done your research and know two top treatments that work to reduce facial scarring are chemical peels and microneedling. But it’s hard to know which is better for acne scars.

Read on to understand the difference between chemical peels and microneedling, and figure out which is better for your acne scars.

WHAT IS A CHEMICAL PEEL?

A chemical peel resurfaces your skin through the use of a chemical solutions applied to the skin. As the chemicals react on your skin, they exfoliate the top layer, causing it to eventually peel off, leaving room for new, smoother skin to grow.

There are three basic types of chemical peel treatments, and each type has different effects and different time required to heal. The choice of peel depends on the results you’re seeking.

Superficial peels use a milder acid and generally work best on mild discoloration. Medium-level peels penetrate the outer and middle layers of skin to lessen the appearance of imperfections, such as age spots and wrinkles. Deep chemical peels penetrate far into the middle layers and remove damaged skin cells for more dramatic results.

Waseem and the team at Dontage will evaluate your skin to ensure you receive the best peel for your unique needs.

chemical peel side effects

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.

Confused about which skin care ingredients live up to the hype? You’re not alone. Find out which products are worth using or worth skipping.

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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.

Microneedling uses tiny needles to micro-puncture the skin. This nonsurgical procedure works by increasing collagen production in the punctured areas.

Collagen, a naturally-occurring protein made by the body, is the key ingredient in keeping your skin looking young, firm, and smooth. As we age, collagen production naturally declines. In addition, collagen production can be prematurely stunted when the skin is injured and then scarred, as with scars caused by acne.

Microneedling is safe to use on all skin types and is a safe and effective way to treat scars and other skin imperfections like wrinkles, sun spots, large pores, and more. Most patients find it to be pain free and experience dramatic results.

Microneedling isn’t a one-and-done treatment, however. Multiple treatments are generally required for optimal results. Waseem will evaluate your skin and recommend the right number of treatments for you. Most patients receive between 4-6 treatments, but each patient’s needs are different.

WHICH IS BETTER FOR ACNE SCARS?

Both chemical peels and microneedling will improve the appearance of your skin. Chemical peels generally work best on superficial imperfections, while microneedling penetrates deeper to improve more troublesome issues.

Many people with acne scars find a combination of microneedling and chemical peels deliver the best results. Microneedling will reach deeper under the skin to promote healing of scarred areas. Once the microneedling treatments are complete, a chemical peel can rejuvenate your skin further, leaving you with clearer, younger-looking skin.

No one treatment fits everyone’s needs. It’s important to meet with skincare professionals, like Waseem and the team at Dontage, to determine which is best for you.

HOW CAN I GET STARTED?

If you’re ready to say goodbye to your acne scars, be sure to seek treatment from certified professionals. With 16 years of professional experience, Waseem can recommend the right treatments to give you the clear, healthy skin you deserve.

Ready to take the first step in reducing the appearance of acne scars? Contact Waseem and the team at Dontage by phone or request an appointment online today.

Microneedling and chemical peel same day

Acne is difficult to overcome. Even after the pimples have disappeared, scars often remain a bitter reminder that we once suffered from this affliction. These scars cause the skin to look uneven, which in turn can lead to many insecurities. Home remedies or whitening creams usually do not work, so it is necessary to resort to professional dermatological treatments. 

Professionals recommend treatments such as chemical peelings and micro-needling to eliminate these marks on the skin. These treatments are highly beneficial both in combination and separately. The question is, can you do a chemical peeling after micro-needling? Keep reading to find out, but first, we will explain both processes separately.

What is micro-needling, and how does it work?

Microneedling is a non-surgical procedure in which the skin receives small punctures with the help of a radiofrequency device with microscopic needles or tools like derma-rollers and derma-pens. This treatment is painless, and the micro-punctures heal almost instantly.  

In microneedling, the punctures are made at the superficial level of the skin to stimulate and raise collagen production and increase elasticity in those specific areas. That promotes rejuvenation and reduction of scars, expression lines, flaccidity, and sunspots, resulting in a firmer, smoother, and younger appearance.

This treatment works on all skin types safely and with optimal results. Note that a single session is not enough, and the number of treatments required may vary for each patient, although usually between 3 and 6 sessions are performed. Even so, results show from the first session.

What is a chemical peeling, and how does it work?

Chemical peeling is a non-surgical procedure that consists of applying a chemical agent directly on the skin in the face, neck, and other body parts. With this powerful treatment, dead cells are exfoliated to stimulate new cells that will give the skin a smoother and younger appearance.

Chemical peels use a solution that “peels off” the top layers of the skin to improve its texture and appearance while diminishing acne marks, wrinkles, sun damage, blemishes, and redness.  

There are superficial, medium, and deep peels, each indicated depending on the desired effect. All of them have a different healing time, and their application will depend on the evaluation of a dermatologist for each patient.

Can you do a chemical peeling after micro-needling?

Absolutely. Combining both techniques will improve the appearance of the skin internally and externally. It is recommended to perform the chemical peel first as this removes all the dead and old layers of skin.

After about 4 to 6 weeks, when the skin have recovered from the peeling, you can start micro-needling sessions to finish improving the most problematic areas.

Some people who have suffered from very severe acne do the treatment in reverse, attending the micro-needling sessions first to start the collagen production. That way, when the deep peeling is done, the skin heals better and has a more even tone.

In either case, it is essential to consult with certified skincare professionals who will recommend the ideal treatments to give your skin the aspect you have always wanted.