In order to remove the skin’s damaged outer layers, a chemical solution is applied to the skin during a chemical peel cosmetic procedure. This process results in the growth of new, healthier skin cells, which can improve the appearance of a range of skin conditions. The strength and type of chemical peels Cypress used mostly depend on the specific skin condition being treated and other factors such as skin type and sensitivity.
How do chemical peels work?
Chemical peels use a chemical solution to remove the outer layers of the skin. The chemical solution is applied to the skin and left on for a specific time, depending on the strength and type of peel used. During this time, the chemical solution works to dissolve the bonds between the dead skin cells on the skin’s surface, causing them to slough off.
The depth of the chemical peel depends on the strength of the chemical solution used. There are three chemical peels: superficial, medium, and deep.
- Superficial peels are the mildest chemical peel and use a mild acid, such as alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) or beta-hydroxy acid (BHA), to exfoliate the outermost layer of the skin. These peels treat minor skin issues such as fine lines, acne, and uneven skin tone.
- Medium peels remove the top and middle layers of skin by penetrating deeper into the skin with stronger acids like trichloroacetic acid (TCA) or glycolic acid. These peels address skin conditions like deeper wrinkles, age spots, and acne scars that have progressed.
- Deep peels remove damaged skin cells by penetrating the deepest layers of the skin with the strongest acids, such as phenol. Deep wrinkles, scarring, and hyperpigmentation are among the severe skin conditions these peels treat.
After the chemical solution is applied and the desired depth of the peel is achieved, the solution is neutralized and removed from the skin. The skin may appear red and feel sensitive for a few days after the peel. It is important to avoid sun exposure and to follow a proper skincare regimen to ensure proper healing and optimal results.
Chemical peels are used to treat a variety of skin conditions, including:
- Acne: Chemical peels can effectively reduce the appearance of acne and acne scars. They work by exfoliating the skin, removing the outer layers of dead skin cells that can clog pores and cause breakouts.
- Age spots: Age spots, also known as sunspots or liver spots, are flat, brown patches that appear on the skin due to sun damage. Chemical peels can help to reduce the appearance of age spots by removing the damaged outer layers of skin.
- Fine lines and wrinkles: Chemical peels can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by promoting the growth of new, healthy skin cells.
- Melasma: Melasma is a condition that causes brown patches to appear on the skin, usually on the face. Chemical peels can effectively treat melasma by removing the outer layers of skin affected by the condition.
- Uneven skin tone: Chemical peels can help to even out skin tone by removing the outer layers of skin that are discolored or damaged.
It is recommended to note that chemical peels may not be suitable for everyone, and it is advisable to consult your dermatologist at Magnolia Dermatology.
