Chemical peels are a type of technique that is utilized to enhance the appearance of the skin on the neck, face, or hands. We apply a chemical solution to your skin that has an exfoliating effect, causing some skin to peel away. This leads to the development of newly rejuvenated skin that is less wrinkled and smoother than the old skin.
The Light Peel
If you have a dull skin tone, enlarged pores, or superficial acne scars, a light peel may be able to help. There is a lifecycle to your skin. Skin cells are constantly maturing and rising to the surface where old ones should give way by sloughing off periodically. In some people, dead skin cells can accumulate on the surface and have a dulling effect on your complexion. This is where the light peel comes in.
Light peels typically contain gentle acids like lactic, glycolic, or alphahydroxy acid. They only remove the stratum corneum skin layer composed mostly of dead skin cells. This helps to immediately brighten your complexion.
The Medium Peel
TCA or glycolic acid can be used in a solution to penetrate into the middle layers of skin for the removal of old skin cells. Medium peels are able to treat fine lines and wrinkles, age spots, moderate skin discoloration, and freckles. They can also be used to help treat certain precancerous skin growths and to smooth out rough skin.
The Deep Peel
High-strength TCA, phenol, or carbolic acid can be used in a solution to penetrate deeply into the skin for the removal of damaged skin cells. This treatment is effective at correcting age spots, scars, freckles, and moderate lines and wrinkles. You will notice a dramatic enhancement in the appearance of your skin. The deep peel can only be performed once and will require sedation and a good deal of downtime while you heal from this aggressive form of skin treatment.
After Your Peel
Given the name, it should not be surprising that some skin peeling can be expected after your chemical peel treatment. This is good and a sign that the process is working as it should. You need to take care of your skin very carefully during the healing period since some of the outer layers have been removed.
Chemical peels are utilized to speed up dead skin cell exfoliation, revealing new skin underneath. The main thing to avoid during the healing period is sun exposure. Use a broad-spectrum SPF to safeguard your skin during this time. Your skin will be thinner after your chemical peels treatment and more vulnerable to UV radiation damage.
Schedule Your Consultation
If you are ready to take your skin to the next level with chemical peels, consider us here at River Region Dermatology & Laser in Montgomery, AL. Contact us today to schedule your consultation!
