What Does a Chemical Peel Do?
If you've ever felt frustrated by your skin, you're not alone. People are looking for the best way to achieve a clearer, younger-looking, more radiant complexion. Skin peels, specifically chemical peels, are a gentle yet powerful way to refresh and revitalise your skin. They offer a chance to tackle various skin concerns and can leave you feeling more confident in your appearance.
How does a chemical peel work?
A skin peel is a cosmetic facial treatment that works by applying a chemical solution to the top layer of the skin that exfoliates the outer layers, promoting the shedding of dead skin cells and encouraging new cell growth. The process typically involves three main steps:
Cleansing: Before the peel is applied, your skin will be thoroughly cleansed to remove any makeup, oils, or impurities. This step makes sure that the chemical solution can permeate effectively.
Application of the Chemical Solution: A specially formulated chemical solution is applied once your skin is prepped. The solution works by breaking down the bonds between dead skin cells.
Neutralisation and Aftercare: Depending on the type used, the chemical solution is neutralised or removed afterwards. Your skincare professional will then give you advice on how to take care of your skin after a chemical peel so it can heal and maximise the benefits.
The result? A smoother, brighter complexion that can help improve the overall texture and tone of your skin. The healing process may vary based on the depth of the peel, but many find that the results are well worth it.
What does a chemical peel do?
Chemical peels are used to treat a variety of skin concerns, making them a versatile option if you're looking to treat more than one type of skin condition:
Fine Lines and Wrinkles
As we age, our skin naturally loses elasticity and firmness. Chemical peels are anti-wrinkle treatments that help reduce the appearance of fine lines, promoting a smoother and more youthful complexion.
Acne and Acne Scars
Chemical peels can be particularly beneficial for those struggling with acne, as they help unclog pores, reduce inflammation, and improve overall skin texture. They can also help fade post-acne scars over time.
Uneven Skin Tone and Hyperpigmentation
If you have dark spots or want to remove pigmentation from your face caused by sun damage or hormonal changes, chemical peels can help brighten your complexion and even your skin tone.
Dull or Rough Texture
If your skin feels rough or looks dull, a chemical peel can exfoliate dead skin cells, revealing fresher and more radiant new skin underneath.
Sun Damage
A lifetime of sun exposure can lead to various skin issues, including spots and premature ageing. Chemical peels can help address these concerns by removing damaged outer layers of skin.
Enlarged Pores
Chemical peels may help minimise the appearance of enlarged pores by exfoliating the surface of the skin and improving overall texture.
Types of Chemical Peels
The type of peel that's right for you will depend on your skin type, concerns, and desired results. These come in different strengths and formulas:
Superficial Peels
These are the mildest forms of chemical peels. They typically use alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) like glycolic acid or beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) like salicylic acid. These light peels gently exfoliate the outermost layer of skin, making them ideal for addressing minor skin texture issues, fine lines, and mild discolouration.
Medium Peels
These medium-depth peels are our specialty at The Dental Spa. This type of skin peel penetrates deeper into the skin, reaching the middle layers of the dermis. Our Easy TCA peels from Skin Tech use trichloroacetic acid (TCA) to help with more pronounced wrinkles, acne scars, and uneven skin tone.
Deep Peels
The strongest type of skin peel, deep chemical peels, uses phenol to penetrate the lower dermal layer. These deeper peels can produce dramatic results for severe wrinkles, sun damage, and even precancerous growths. However, they require significant downtime and should only be performed by experienced professionals.
Side Effects of a Chemical Peel
While chemical peels can provide remarkable benefits for your skin, after the treatment, you may experience some redness and irritation, which is completely normal and can last from a few hours to several days, depending on the strength of the peel
You might also notice peeling skin, especially with medium to deep peels. This is part of the healing process as your skin sheds its damaged outer layer. As a result, your skin may feel dry and sensitive during recovery, but this can typically be managed with moisturisers recommended by your skincare professional.
Some people report a stinging or burning sensation during and shortly after the procedure, though this discomfort usually subsides within a few days. You can also experience mild swelling, particularly with deeper peels, but it generally resolves quickly. While rare, there is also a risk of scarring and infection if aftercare instructions are not followed properly.
How to Prepare for a Chemical Peel
Preparing for a chemical peel will help you make sure you get the best possible results and minimise any potential side effects:
Consult with a Professional: Before having a chemical peel, it's important to have a consultation with a qualified skincare professional. They will assess your skin type, discuss your concerns, and recommend the most suitable type of peel for your needs.
Avoid Certain Products: In the weeks before your peel, you may be told to avoid certain products that can increase your skin's sensitivity, like retinoids, exfoliants, and products containing alpha or beta hydroxy acids.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water and use a gentle moisturiser on the days leading up to your peel so your skin is in the best condition to start healing.
Limit Sun Exposure: Protect your skin from the sun by avoiding excessive sun exposure and using sunscreen. Sunburned or damaged skin is not suitable for peeling.
Plan for Downtime: Depending on the type of chemical peel you choose, you may need some downtime for recovery. A medium chemical peel like ours doesn't require much downtime.
Am I a good candidate for a chemical peel?
If you're considering a chemical peel and want to learn more about whether it’s the right choice for you, our experienced team is here to guide you through the process and help you achieve your skincare goals with confidence. Schedule a consultation today and take the first step toward revitalising your skin!