Why Chemical Peels Are Safe and Recommended in the Winter
During this time of the year, when the harsh winter months can be brutal, we often worry about our skin health. This is when we turn toward safe and effective cosmetic treatments that can help us achieve flawless skin without making our skin even more vulnerable to harsh weather conditions. That’s where chemical peels come in. You’ve probably heard of this cosmetic dermatology treatment, but did you know that getting a chemical peel during the winter can be more effective than any other time of year?
The Top Reasons Chemical Peels Are Safe
1. Hydrates the Skin to Fend Off Harsh Winds
Winter is notorious for drying out skin and making it brittle, flaky, and even itchy. The cold dry air whisks moisture right out of the atmosphere and right out of our skin. Chemical peels for the face do a good job of nipping that in the bud. Regardless of the strength of the treatment, chemical peels are designed to completely rejuvenate and rehydrate the skin. You’ll want to see a dermatologist for safest and best results. During your treatment, they will first steam your face to open your pores and cleanse away anything that doesn’t serve your skin. This act alone, completely hydrates your skin. Step two is the application of the chemical/acid mixture. Once the mixture is wiped away, the dermatologist moves to step three: the application of skin-loving moisturizer and sunscreen. By the time the procedure is over, your skin is fully moisturized and hydrated and ready to fight the onslaught of cold frigid air.
2. Less Harmful UV Rays to Disturb Your Skin
While we love summer, it is the most dangerous time for our skin. The sun constantly showers a hefty dose of harmful ultraviolet rays that carry radiation. It is this radiation that harms our skin and opens the door to skin cancer. Having a chemical peel during this time is considered relatively safe, as long as you stay out of the sun and use sunscreen of SPF 30 and higher, even if heading outside for short periods of time. Since the procedure itself works to shed your old layer of skin and promotes the regeneration of new healthy skin, new healthy skin can quickly become damaged when you step out of those doors and into the sunlight. Your new skin is sensitive and more susceptible to sun damage. It’s best to get a chemical peel in the winter when there are less UV rays reaching the ground and it’s more conducive to spending time indoors or under layers outdoors.
3. Erases Summer Sun Damage for a Fresh Start
As we mentioned, the summer sun is no delicate star. During those months, when we’re enjoying a fun outing, our skin is taking a beating. Brown spots, harmful tans, clogged pores, heat rashes, and other forms of sun damage accumulate on our skin. So by the time winter rolls around our skin has had enough. Thankfully, chemical peels work as sun damage skin treatment to create new, radiant skin for a fresh start in the new year.
4. Perfect Time to Recuperate
The great thing about winter is that many of us stay inside and cozy up next to a warm fire. It’s the best time to stay in and stay warm, but that also means it’s an even more perfect time to get a chemical peel. After you leave the office following your treatment, your skin will slowly blister and peel away over the next week or so. This means that in that time, you will experience skin shedding, possible redness or slight swelling, and general unevenness of the skin. It’s all part of the process, however, for some, it may be a bit unsightly. If you’re a little apprehensive about stepping out into the world while your skin undergoes its transformation, then winter is the best time to get your treatment. Since everyone is typically staying inside anyways, you won’t be missing out on any outdoor fun.
Winter Skin Is Beautiful Skin!
If you’re in the Cincinnati, Ohio area and you’re ready for your winter chemical peel treatment, our experts at The Dermatology Group can help you explore your best options and get you started. Give us a call today!