Chemical peels became a popular treatment among beauty advocates, but also a solution for those in need to treat different skin conditions. What is a chemical peel? Can sensitive skins have it?
They work by removing outer layers of the skin. Skin responds by regenerating fast enough, increasing collagen and elastin production (on another level).
Depth of peels could range from superficial to deep and is determined the chemical agent used, concentration and pH. Therefore, this determines who performs the treatment. An advanced skin therapist or a dermatologist.
- Advanced and trained skin therapists perform chemical and enzyme peels under 30% – superficial layer aka epidermis;
- Aestheticians, dermatologists, surgeons perform chemical peels over 30% and low pH, resorcinol, trichloroacetic (TCA), Jessner solution, phenol (deepest) – medium and deep layers aka dermis.
At my job, a lot of my clients were interested in peels, without knowing what are the benefits. My savvy clients knew that peels are an upgrade to facials, but they wanted no matter what. The truth is that you don’t need to have severe skin issues to have a chemical peel. But if you do, an advanced skin therapist will always determine if your concern can be treated in the clinic or at the dermatologist.
Some of the best benefits by having a chemical peel:
- improves your skin tone and texture;
- stimulates collagen and elastin production;
- reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, smoker’s lines;
- clears acne and breakouts;
- reduces/ treats scars;
- reduces/ treats hyperpigmentation;
If you are interested in getting a peel at your local beauty clinic, here is what you need to know:
If you never had a facial before, get one. It will help you to clean and hydrate your skin in a professional environment. Then, you will understand your skin better and it will be easier to target your concerns.
Your skincare regimen at home has to be complete and correct. If you use just soap, first, invest in a SPF, night cream, hydrating serums and cleanser. I wouldn’t recommend a peel if you don’t have a skin regiment to follow.
You need a peel patch test in order to check if your skin reacts to the chemical compounds. This includes allergic reaction. If you do have any reactions, I would recommend you to try a different peel brand, therefore another clinic.
Engage to a course of chemical peels. Your therapist will recommend you a series of peels options that will benefit you long-term results. Yes, you can see improvements after one peel but it may have a cinderella effect (results for shorter timeframe).
Post peel aftercare. Peels can make your skin flaky, red, irritated and enhance your hyperpigmentation or acne temporary. You have five days that you may need to follow certain instructions such as: use post peel kits, avoid sun exposure, medical procedures, waxing, exfoliation, and to interrupt your retinoid.
What if my skin is sensitive?
If your skin is sensitive, I encourage you to have a skin consultation. This way, your therapist will know exactly what to do. Personally, I would check if you are sensitized or sensitive (click here to learn the difference). In addition, I determine your skincare regimen and build up your skin’s strength, to have an intact skin barrier. There should be a chemical peel that is gentle enough to help you.
What are the contraindications?
- If you are trying to have a baby, or you are already pregnant/breastfeeding is safe to skip this treatment.
- If you recently had microdermabrasion, mezotherapy, laser or other stimulating treatments;
- Retinol, tretinoin, antibiotics, antidepressants, burns, herpes simplex, inflamed acne or rosacea.
- Botox, fillers, threads for at least two weeks.
Have you ever had a chemical peel? Comment in the section below and tell me about it.
Would you like to find out more how they work and what would be the best for your skin?
Disclaimer: chemical peels are not for home use. My advices are not intended to be followed without proper consultation with a professional. This is informational and should be used as a guide. Everything is based on my experiences so if you have any questions feel free to contact me.