This month I thought I’d talk about chemical peels. I’ve had a lot of questions regarding the process and many people seem to be intimated by them. I think maybe people are afraid they will look like hamburger meat after their appointment. Those type of peels are usually medical grade peels and performed by Medical Doctors. I promise you will not leave looking anything less than slightly red.

Personally, I love peels! They are literally the reason I wanted to become an esthetician. When I was in my 20s, oh so long ago, I started getting them. I had no idea what they entailed either, but I was willing to try them out. I had adult acne and thought it would be a good way to help keep it at bay. I honestly can’t even tell you which peels I got, but I know they worked and that was good enough for me!

So, what are peels anyways? Chemical peels are professional treatments that use different chemical agents to basically “wound” the skin so the body can then begin healing the wound and create new skin. The skin looks better, feels better and even works better than before the wound! Skin texture is dramatically improved, the appearance of fine lines is reduced, and dark spots are lightened. Over time, and with continued treatments, the skin will be conditioned, smooth and healthy looking. Sign me up!

chemical peelsWhat are some of the indications that you may need a peel?

  1. Acne and/or acne scars
  2. Rosacea
  3. Photodamage
  4. Pigmentary disorders such as melasma or PIH (post inflammatory hyperpigmentation)
  5. Fine lines and wrinkles
  6. Dry skin

 

 

Contraindications include

  1. Recent sun exposure
  2. Certain medications (Must be off Accutane for at least 8-12 months)
  3. Facial waxing
  4. History of HSV
  5. History of scarring/keloids
  6. Open wounds
  7. Rein-A

When you come for your appointment, we will talk about all of this and if need be, post pone your appt until the required time.

If you decide to get a peel, I will choose one based on your skin condition and the desired results. Peels can be done at intervals of 7-30 days depending on the peel and may require 3-6 treatments depending on what condition is being treated. Gel peels tend to be more mild, have less contact time and are neutralized with water. I’m sure you’ve heard of the “lunch time” peel? These peels have little down time if any, but still help to change the skin. Some examples would be Lactic acid, glycolic acid, mandelic acid, arginine acid and azelaic acid. Alcohol peels are applied by layers and are self-neutralizing. They remain on the skin for 6-8 hours before being rinsed off. These peels tend to have more downtime and can result in different levels of peeling.

I recently had a client that was going to get married a few days after her appointment with me. She wanted dermaplaning as she knew it would help with the appearance of her makeup for the big day. I also recommend a lactic acid peel in addition to add some hydration and the results were amazing! She left dewy, hydrated, hair free and very happy!!

Bottom line, think of chemical peels as workouts for your skin. A good chemical peel can induce the production of a more effective barrier, improve the health and function of the skin, stimulate the secretion of water, and activate the synthesis of collagen and connective tissue in the dermis. Yes, please!!

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