Don’t like needles? Don’t worry! Treat your aging skin with a chemical peel!
No matter how old you get, sometimes needles are just plain creepy. Yet when we age and those wrinkles and droopy skin start to really make their mark, many of us are willing to face that fear and consider Botox or dermal fillers. The truth is, these aren’t your only options!
Injections aren’t the only way to get your youth back. Chemical peels are just as effective and often less scary. He’s everything you need to know.
What to Know About Chemical Peels
What Is a Chemical Peel?
A chemical peel is a cosmetic dermatology procedure that utilizes certain acids to promote the regeneration of the skin.
Most chemical peels are made from AHAs or alpha/beta hydroxy acids. These are the types of acids found in milk and natural fruit sugars. Most people typically know them as lactic and glycolic acid. Salicylic acid is another, stronger acid used in chemical peels.
The type of acid used depends on your skin type and the severity of your skin condition, like acne, wrinkles, dark spots, acne scars, etc.
While these acids are relatively harmless, they each have their own levels of potency. For example, lactic acid is one of the gentlest of the bunch. Since it isn’t as strong as the other chemicals, it’s often reserved for those with few to no blemishes or sensitive skin. Salicylic acid, on the other hand, is a bit stronger and can be used for tougher cases like acne scars, wrinkles, and sun damage.
How Do Chemical Peels Work?
Chemical peels work by delivering superficial injuries to the outermost layer of the skin. This injury kicks the skin’s healing process into high gear. As the skin cells attempt to regenerate, the older, injured skin starts to blister and eventually peels away. Once the old skin is gone and the new skin has made its debut, it is typically smoother, less wrinkled, and more even-toned.
What to Expect from a Chemical Peel
The procedure itself is relatively simple. After your dermatologist cleans the top layer of dirt and buildup from your face using a cleanser, he or she will then apply the acid mixture to your face. Once applied, they will wipe it away and apply a moisturizing sunscreen to protect your new skin.
Most people will see a difference immediately, as the cleansing was likely to have removed any bumpiness. However, over the next few days, your skin will blister and peel. After a few weeks, the old skin completely sloughs away, leaving being the fresh, new, unblemished skin with fewer wrinkles.
This type of cosmetic procedure is considered much less invasive than Botox or dermal filler injections. Even still, chemical peels aren’t for everyone. Chemical peels can do more harm than good to those with sensitive skin or with skin conditions like rosacea, psoriasis, or eczema. That’s why it’s imperative that you speak to your dermatologist about the right solution for you.
Our experts at The Dermatology Group in Cincinnati, Ohio are here to help you make that decision and even carry out the procedure. So if you want to get started on your chemical peel treatment, give us a call today!