chemical peel

What You Should Know Before Your First Chemical Peel

Skin is the intersection between the human body and the world at large. Environmental factors like sunlight and abrasion can damage the epidermis (outer layer of skin) while regenerative factors beneath the surface work to replenish and repair these impurities.

To properly support the vital interplay between the external and the internal, it is essential to understand the science of skin maintenance. Cells are in a constant state of renewal and migration, so we must celebrate these processes to effectively treat the skin.

Chemical peels are a safe, transformative way to address issues of aging, damage, and textural inconsistencies. If you are new to the concept of aesthetic peeling, the following information is designed to give you a broad introduction to the options at your disposal.

HOW TO PREPARE FOR A PEEL

Even before you undergo a skin resurfacing procedure, you can condition your skin with topical products that will strengthen and moisturize your complexion. After consulting with your doctor, you may be directed to apply various creams to prepare yourself.

Many of these pre-peel concoctions contain hydroquinone. The reason for using topical products is to reduce the chance of hyperpigmentation (discoloration) and/or bacterial infection. But the best way to avoid these minor risks is to choose a skilled and knowledgeable medical team to attend to your cosmetic and healthcare needs.

VERSATILITY AND VIBRANCY

Every complexion is unique, which is why each patient must be considered on an individual basis. You wouldn’t wear makeup designed for someone else’s skin tone, so why would you trust a one-peel-fits-all approach to enhancement?

The exact formulation of your peel will depend on your goals. Some people wish to strip away severe imperfections while others simply want to spruce up their glow. Chemical peels must be gauged to your level of satisfaction.

While the precise ingredients will differ greatly from case to case, peels generally fall into one of three categories.

  • Superficial peels use alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) to penetrate just below the epidermis. 
  • Medium depth peels go further, affecting the papillary layer of the dermis and stimulating the natural production of collagen.
  • Deep peels utilize phenol to create a true resurfacing, removing the outermost cells where damage is most prevalent and prompting the dermis to replace them with healthy, fresh skin.

Within each of the above categories, there is plenty of room for customization and empowerment. You should receive the peel that’s perfect for you, and the benefits will naturally follow. 

PORE CONTROL

If you struggle with enlarged pores, a chemical peel can restore your radiance. Your doctor will coat the surface of your skin with a powerful compound, but only for a matter of 5-10 minutes. Once the chemical solution is gently swabbed away, your skin responds by gradually tightening and toning itself. Hence, a chemical peel is like a makeover from within!

ACNE TREATMENT

On the other end of the skincare spectrum, pores may become clogged, which leads to acne issues. A chemical peel can prevent breakouts by clearing away sebum, the oil that your skin secretes.

In addition to acne prevention, peels can treat the damage from past outbreaks. Ruddy complexions, pitted areas, and other textural unevenness are no match for a well-strategized peel.

AGE SPOT REDUCTION

Call them what you will: liver spots, blotches, age spots, etc. But no matter what label you place on them, you can’t cover up the effects of photoaging. UV rays can provide a healthy sheen in small doses, but they can accelerate the deterioration of your skin as well.

To reverse the discoloration of your complexion due to sun exposure, maturation, and the combination of these processes, consider the rewards of a chemical peel.

MINIMIZING SCARS

When the skin is broken, a rush of collagen floods the wound, patching it hastily. The resulting skin looks and feels different than its surroundings. It’s like making a batch of cupcakes; if you throw in a new scoop of batter halfway through the baking cycle, it will stand out from the other, more gradually cooked cakes. 

In other words: rushing the creation of healthy skin is half-baked.

The natural process of skin repairing and replacing its outer layers is called epithelialization. The proper peel can dovetail with epithelialization to bring an even glow to the complexion. Rather than a blotch of scar tissue associated with wound repair, peels encourage a balanced, healthy new landscape of skin.

MAXIMIZING YOUTHFULNESS

One of the most popular reasons for exploring chemical peels is to turn back the hands of time. As we age, the skin accumulates fine lines and creases. There are many causes for the manifestation of crow’s feet and nasolabial folds, including facial muscular contractions and the depletion of proteins over time. 

Your doctor can address the aforementioned dynamics with injectables like Botox (to ease repetitive expressions) or hyaluronic acid (to fill the gaps beneath the surface). While fillers and neuromodulators work subdermally, peels refresh the exterior of the skin.

Reducing the persistence of rhytids (wrinkles) is one of the major benefits of a chemical peel. The compound simultaneously removes damaged, dead skin cells and helps new, tighter skin to take its place. 

FRESH FACED, PERKY PERSPECTIVE

As the name suggests, a chemical peel flakes away in a matter of 3-6 days after application. The solution peels away more than just damaged skin; it also removes insecurities and inhibitions. When you face the world on your own terms, you will enjoy a boost of confidence that everyone can notice!
To learn more about chemical peels and how they work with your unique appearance, contact our office in Beverly Hills, California. We can’t wait to celebrate your skin!