Aging Skin but Not Ready for Needles? Try a Chemical Peel
The unfortunate reality is that wrinkles, acne scars, and dark spots (in other words, visible signs of aging skin) can begin to show up as early as the mid-twenties. Say you’re noticing some of these skin issues, but you’re not quite ready for injectables like Botox or dermal fillers. Instead, you might try the “lunchtime facial,” a needle-free treatment known as a chemical peel. Here’s why.
What to Know About Chemical Peels
What Does a Chemical Peel Do?
A chemical peel facial treatment acts as a chemical exfoliant rather than a physical exfoliant like microdermabrasion. Peels are superficial treatments, meaning that they’re non-invasive and are applied only to the surface of the skin. By removing the topmost layer of dead skin cells, chemical peels reveal fresh layers of skin beneath. This skin is brighter and more youthful-looking than the dead skin on top.
During a chemical peel, a board-certified clinician cleanses the skin in order to remove dirt and oil on the surface. Then they apply the specially formulated chemical solution. This solution remains on the skin for between 15 and 20 minutes before being gently removed. It’s usually recommended to receive a chemical peel about every 6-8 weeks, but this could vary depending on the targeted issues. Receiving regular chemical peels can help reduce acne scars and minimize fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots.
Varieties of Chemical Peels
Depending on the skin concern being targeted, a dermatologist will make recommendations on the brand, depth, and frequency of chemical peel facial treatments.
There are lighter depth peels on the market that use glycolic acid. The SkinMedica Illuminize peels are often used to treat mild skin irregularities like light discoloration. While skin will look brighter and more even post-treatment, light depth peels aren’t usually able to totally remove freckles and dark spots.
If you’re working on deeper creases in the face, your dermatologist will likely recommend a stronger depth chemical peel. The SkinMedica Vitalize Peel and Rejuvenize Peel are often used as wrinkle reducing treatments. They include higher concentrations of salicylic acid, lactic acid, and retinol — ingredients that can promote fresh cell turnover and remove dead skin quickly and completely. It’s important to note that the skin will likely shed over the course of 5-7 days post-treatment following deeper peels like these.
Chemical Peels and Safety
Chemical peels have been on the market for many years and are FDA-approved to be administered by a board-certified clinician. It’s crucial that you work with a dermatologist or other credible clinician, however, since certain medications and skin care products can cause harmful interactions if used while getting a chemical peel.
A doctor will advise you to stop exfoliating before and after a chemical peel treatment and to wear sunscreen following the procedure since skin will be a little more sensitive. However, side effects are typically minimal and include mild redness and flaking, which will dissipate within a few days.
Contact Louisiana Dermatology Associates
If you’re in Baton Rouge or the surrounding areas and want to try a chemical peel, contact Louisiana Dermatology Associates today for an appointment with one of our board-certified specialists.