Skin concerns have been a staple in human history. While evidence of various types of skin treatments dates back thousands of years. Peels were popular in Ancient Egypt, while the Romans frequently exfoliated dead skin cells.
Removing dead skin cells from the surface of the skin allows new and smoother looking skin to appear. A skin peel, particularly a chemical peel, is a chemically based method to achieve this.
What is the purpose of a chemical peel?
A chemical peel helps achieve younger, and fresher looking skin. It does this by removing the layer of dead skin cells through chemical exfoliation. As a result, new skin cells can be seen. This leaves your skin looking suppler, soft, and more hydrated.
How does a chemical peel work?
A chemical peel comes in the form of a gel or water like liquid. It is placed over the skin like a thin mask and active until washed off with water. Strong, deep acid peels need to be neutralised at specific points to ensure no tissue damage. This is because the ingredients in a peel will eat away at dead skin cells and need to be washed off before damaging healthy tissue. Typically, peel will cause inflammation. This can both be positive, as it stimulates collagen, and negative if you experience acne or post inflammatory pigmentation.
What ingredients are used in chemical peels?
Chemical peels contain acids that act as the primary active ingredient. These acids can include lactic acid, glycolic acid, or other natural hydroxy fruit acids. They can all be formulated to be different potencies. While chemical peels are suited for all skin types, it is a good idea to get a professional opinion to select the best match. Depending on your skin complexion and the results you are after, the professionals may point you in a particular direction.
What are the side effects of chemical peels?
Some potential side effects of chemical peels include.
To avoid or minimise the side effects, a detailed skin consultation is a must before the treatment. This way you will be able to choose the right concentration, duration, and acid for your skin. Over the counter peels tend to be less concentrated and therefore less likely to cause issues. For more potent formulas, you will need to book a professional skin peel.
Do chemical peels hurt?
The deeper the peel, with the more concentrated acid, the more painful the experience can be. Superficial peels on the top layers of the skin feel like a light itching. The heavier duty alternatives may feel closer to burning.
What should you consider before getting a chemical peel?
Once you have gotten a chemical peel, your skin will be more sensitive to UV rays and environmental factors. It is important to avoid too much sun exposure. That is why it is important to stay out of the sun and provide yourself with ample sunscreen to protect the newly peeled skin. Check out this Doctor BABOR 360 Sun Protection.
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