Our helpful guide will explain everything you need to know about chemical peels, including what is a chemical peel, how to prepare for a chemical peel, what to expect, aftercare, and of course, all the benefits of incorporating chemical peels into your routine.
Chemical peels can be particularly beneficial for those who wish to combat dry skin, dullness, skin imperfections, sun damage and other noticeable signs of ageing.
Most people have to deal with dry, lacklustre skin at some point during their lifetime, although some people tend to be more predisposed to dry skin than others.
What is a Chemical Peel?
Chemical peels are very effective at treating a range of skin concerns. Dry skin can be caused by a number of different factors. Unfortunately, some people are more prone to dry skin due to genetic factors and medical conditions such as eczema. That said, age, environment (such as living in a harsh, dry climate), over-cleansing of the skin, using the wrong products, and a poor diet can also greatly contribute to the likelihood of developing dry skin.
A chemical peel utilises a substance such as lactic acid, glycolic acid, and both natural and/or synthetic fruit acids to encourage the removal of the dry, outer most layers of skin. This improves skin texture, and also stimulates collagen and elastin production.
Chemical peels can be applied to the face, hands, neck, and chest and come in controlled strength levels to suit almost every skin type. The level or grade of chemical peel recommended to you will depend on your skin texture and colour, as well as the type of condition you are seeking to treat. Our medical-grade chemical peels come in superficial, medium or deep strengths.
What are the Benefits of Chemical Peels?
Cleansing your skin too often or using the wrong products, such as those made from harsh, drying ingredients, can wreak havoc on your skin over time. Chemical peels are beneficial to anyone’s beauty regime, particularly for those suffering from dry skin, sun damage, and other visible signs of aging.
There are a number of chemical peel benefits. Chemical peels work by helping to remove dead skin cells and stimulating collagen and elastin production. They reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, sun damage, pigmentation and stimulate collagen production, allowing for a smoother, more youthful overall complexion.
People can successfully use a chemical peel for pigmentation or a deep chemical peel for acne scars. Chemical peels can also improve the appearance of pore size and clogged pores, which may lead to acne.
Do Chemical Peels Reduce Wrinkles?
Chemical peels can reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and improve epidermal thickness, as they can encourage the natural production of collagen and elastin through deep exfoliation of the skin.
A chemical peel can improve the look and feel of your skin in just one treatment. However, to achieve optimal results, a series of at least 3-4 treatments are recommended over a period of 3-4 months.
How to Prepare for a Chemical Peel Treatment
Chemical peel before and aftercare is very important. If you follow a range of healthy habits leading up to a chemical peel, you will achieve the most benefits from your treatment, and your expected aftercare duration will be shorter.
Following a regular cleansing and moisturising regime of your skin, drinking plenty of water, and eating a diet rich in antioxidants and omega-3 oils, are also useful ways to combat dry skin naturally.
You should be sure to always select a reputable clinic run by medical skincare professionals who can offer you a professional, unbiased assessment. Many clinics will advise you to avoid smoking, tanning, some medications, and chemical hair removal treatments or waxing prior to undergoing treatment.
What to Expect After a Chemical Peel?
Chemical peels are a relatively painless procedure, though light burning or tingling sensations can commonly occur. It’s normal to experience some skin sensitivity immediately after a chemical peel, such as redness, swelling, skin tightness, and general peeling and flaking of the skin. However, most of these symptoms typically ease within a few days.
You may also experience dry skin around the eye area. It’s important to note that skin around your eye area is typically thinner and more fragile than other skin, so you should be particularly gentle when dealing with any dry skin around the eyes after a chemical peel. Avoid rubbing or picking at the skin around your eyes. Use a hydrating serum or gel with gentle, cooling ingredients and treat the area regularly to combat any skin tightness due to skin peeling. Our consultation nurse at Regenerer medical cosmetics can advise you on the best aftercare moisturisers and ointments to apply during your peeling process.
How Long Does it Take to Heal?
Peeling can typically take anywhere between 7-14 days depending on the strength of your peel, after this time you may resume your normal skincare routine.
To help minimise recovery downtime and any uncomfortable sensations, it’s important to follow an aftercare regime that consists of regular moisturiser and daily sunscreen application. Drink plenty of water, and also avoid any UV tanning or direct sunlight.
Is it Safe to Have a Chemical Peel During Pregnancy?
Most chemical peels should be avoided while you are pregnant. Though, some very light chemical peels, such as those containing ‘lactic acid’ are sometimes considered safe to use during pregnancy. All the medical-grade chemical peels and services we supply here at Regenerer medical cosmetics should be discussed with our nurse beforehand to evaluate suitability.
At Regenerer, we provide a range of other skin treatments, such as facials and dermaplaning, that are suitable during pregnancy. Dermaplaning can be combined with our other treatments, such as facials, to improve skin texture and prevent dry skin. Dermaplaning can be used to safely exfoliate and improve the texture of your skin while you’re pregnant, as no acids or chemicals are involved.