You’re probably familiar with procedures like facials and BOTOX®, but the phrase “chemical peel” can sound a bit scary if you don’t know exactly what it is. The truth is that this category of cosmetic procedures is a great way to get glowing, radiant skin on your face, neck, chest and hands. Chemical peels are fairly simple and straightforward, but they can come with amazing results.
What are Chemical Peels?
These treatments use a solution that reacts with your skin to exfoliate it and cause it to remove itself, similarly to how a sunburn peels. Unlike a sunburn, these peels are not harmful to your skin. Rather, the solution is applied topically by an expert provider to ensure that you get the maximum benefit without adverse effects.
This type of exfoliation is able to give better, longer-lasting results than an at-home peel or facial scrub because certain peels can affect the deeper layers of your skin and boost collagen production. There are many different types and strengths of chemical solutions, which means that almost anyone could be a good candidate for a peel.
How Do Chemical Peels Work?
In essence, chemical peels use specially formulated acids to get rid of the outermost layers of dead skin in order to reveal the fresh, plumper skin underneath. The type and strength of the acid used depends on a few factors. There are three categories of peels: light peels, medium and deep.
Light peels use very mild acids, such as an alpha hydroxy acid, to gently exfoliate only the uppermost layers of skin. These are perfect for sloughing off rough skin or evening out slight discolorations.
Medium peels use a stronger solution, typically glycolic or trichloroacetic acid, which you might see in certain skincare products abbreviated as TCA. These acids are able to penetrate down into the middle layers of your skin in order to exfoliate away deeper issues such as age spots, freckles and fine lines. Deep peels are the most intense.
What are the Benefits of Chemical Peels?
Chemical peels can treat all of the following skin issues:
- Acne scars
- Age spots
- Mildly sagging skin
- Crow’s feet
- Hyperpigmentation
- Scars
- Sun damage
- Wrinkles
- Roughness
- Poor skin texture
Is a Chemical Peel Right for Me?
Many people, both men and women, can benefit from a chemical peel. If you have more questions or want to schedule a consultation with our office, contact us today at Precision MD in Elk Grove, CA. We look forward to speaking with you!
