Many people wish their skin would have that celebrity glow for varied reasons. Some people think a celebrity looking facial skin would make them look better on Instagram. Others think that a blemish-free skin would help make it easier for them to renew their self-confidence. However, such a wish may seem too difficult to be realized for those whose faces are plagued with acne, fine lines, dark spots or any other skin problems. Unfortunately, acne affects around 50 million people in the United States. Moreover, up to 15 percent of adult women are suffering from this most common skin problem, according to the American Academy of Dermatology, Inc. What makes things worse is the fact that this skin condition could lead to depressed acne scars. In other words, a lot of people need expert help for their skin problems. The good news is that individuals with skin problems may turn to dermatologists-approved treatment called chemical peeling.
What is a Chemical Peel?
Chemical peeling is a term used to refer to a skin-resurfacing procedure. This can be done with the use of natural ingredients such as retin A, vitamin C, phenol and TCA (Trichloroacetic Acid). The best thing about chemical peel for men or women is that it has been known to work effectively and with little to no side effects. These chemicals are applied onto the surface of the skin to enable the removal of top layers where skin problems can be seen. After undergoing the process of chemical peeling an individual’s skin will look smoother, younger and blemish-free.
The Different Types of Chemical Peel
The result of the chemical peeling will largely vary depending on the depth of chemical application, as well as the expertise of the person performing the procedure. Chemical peels come in three different types and these include superficial or mild, medium-depth and deep. The recovery period may also depend on the type of chemical peel being performed. How Does Chemical Peel Affect the Different Types of Skin?
- ● For skin with wrinkles and fine lines
Chemical peels are a good way to reduce those fine lines and wrinkles. The acid chemical being used will allow the surface of the skin to break down. As a result, the skin will be able to regain its thickness. With chemical peels, your skin will be made stronger to make it look younger. The chemicals being used for peeling substance can stimulate the production of fibroblasts. These fibroblasts are those cells found in the connective tissues that play a role in the production of collagen. Thus, skin rejuvenation will take place since collagen production is stimulated while skin elasticity is also renewed.
- ● For acne-prone skin
For individuals who have issues with acne, superficial peels can be used. This process doesn’t take much time which is why it is also called “lunchtime peels”. During a superficial peel treatment, the skin will go through a process of exfoliation. This rapid exfoliation will help get rid of dead skin cells. It will also remove excess oil and stop it from clogging the hair follicles on the skin. In turn, blockages in the pores, as well as acne pimples will also be removed. Depending on the peeling agent being applied, the person may feel a bit of stinging sensation. Subsequently, the peel will be removed using cool water coupled with a neutralizing agent. After a series of steps, the skin will look more like it has been sunburned but redness could disappear in a few hours. For some people, it may take up to five days, depending on the peeling agent being used and the severity of the skin problem being treated.
- ● For skin with hyperpigmentation
Chemical peels do a wonderful job at removing several layers of damaged skin. Once all these damaged layers have been removed, healthy skin will now be exposed. When performed by a board-certified dermatologist, chemical peels can effectively treat hyperpigmentation. Individuals must avoid treating hyperpigmentation at home or without the supervision of a dermatologist. Otherwise, the person will become at risk of suffering from its complications such as swelling, burning and itching. If the chemical peel applied is not the right one for one’s skin type, PIH or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation could occur.
After the process of chemical peeling performed by a certified dermatologist, an individual has to take extra care and avoid direct exposure to sunlight. Redness and inflammation may also occur but this can be reduced with the application of vitamin B formula. A moisturizer should also be applied to prevent drying out of the treated area.
- ● For skin scarring
Chemical peels are also great for the reduction and removal of scars. When dead scar tissues are gradually removed, the skin will be able to mold back to its flawless appearance. Chemical peels work best for people who have scarring issues brought about by severe acne. As dead skin was lifted off the surface of the skin, more skin cells will be able to move to the surface of the skin. These younger skin cells will make one’s face look younger and feel tighter while also revealing a more natural skin tone. Besides, since chemical peels improve collagen production, pitted scars will be filled to make the skin become stronger and more flexible.
Superficial
Superficial peels are the mildest form of chemical peeling procedure. This requires only little downtime and one will be able to get back to work soon after the procedure. Superficial or mild chemical peels may involve the use of acids such as salicylic acid to stimulate the process of exfoliation. Superficial peels can be used for treating large pores, wrinkles, fine lines and dark spots. It can also be used for skin tightening.
Medium-Depth
The medium-depth chemical peeling procedure may involve the use of TCA or trichloroacetic acid with a concentration level of not more than 35 percent. This type of chemical peel is usually recommended for people with sun spots, moderate acne scars and photodamage. The recovery period may range from five to seven days.
Deep
The deep chemical peel procedure is provided to individuals having issues with excessive sun damage and severe acne scarring. The recovery period for this type of chemical peeling procedure may take anywhere from 5 to seven days while others are able to recover after two weeks.
It is important for people who went through a chemical peeling procedure to strictly follow the doctor’s instructions for faster recovery. How often you should apply moisturizer and how frequent you should wash your face must be according to your doctor’s advice.
