Chemical Peels:
What is it?
Chemical peels are a popular cosmetic treatment to improve the appearance of the skin. They work by exfoliating the top layer of skin, revealing the fresh, new skin underneath. Chemical peels can be used to treat a variety of concerns, including wrinkles, fine lines, sun damage, and uneven skin tone.
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Most people tolerate chemical peels well and find them to be a safe and effective way to improve the appearance of their skin. However, it is important to voice any concerns you may have before starting treatment, this can be done in the consultation you will receive before starting the treatment.
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Why you should consider a chemical peel:
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If you have scars, wrinkles, or other blemishes that you would like to reduce the appearance of.
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If you have uneven skin tone and would like to even it out.
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If you want to increase cell turnover for fresher, younger-looking skin.
What to expect during and after a chemical peel
During a chemical peel, a solution is applied to the area of the skin being treated. This solution will cause the top layer of skin cells to peel off, revealing newer, younger-looking skin cells beneath.
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You may experience some redness and swelling after the peel, but this should subside within a few days.
How it works
There are different types of chemical peels, and your dermatologist will tailor the peel to your specific needs. The most common type of peel uses alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), such as glycolic or lactic acid. Other types of peels use beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs), such as salicylic acid or trichloroacetic acid (TCA).
Chemical peels are usually done in a series of 3-6 treatments, spaced 4-6 weeks apart. You will likely see the best results after 3-5 peels.
Side effects from a chemical peel are typically mild and temporary. They may include redness, swelling, dryness, scaling, and crusting of the treated skin.
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After your peel, it is important to stay out of the sun and to use sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to protect your skin from sun damage. You should also avoid picking at the treated area, as this could cause scarring.
Chemical Skin Peels
What It Does
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Simulating growth factors such as collagen and elastin production.
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Evening out the skin tone.
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Reducing the appearance of scars, wrinkles, and other blemishes.
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Sloughing off the top layer of dead skin cells to reveal newer, younger-looking skin cells beneath.
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Increasing cell turnover.