Chemical Skin Peels Explained
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Chemical Skin Peels
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Chemical Skin Peels work by removing certain layers of the skin, and the layers they reach depend on their depth. Peels exfoliate the skin, improving cell turnover and skin renewal, but they also indirectly encourage collagen and elastin formation. Chemical Peels, despite being very low-tech, can be highly effective on a clinical and cellular level, and are seemingly greatly undervalued.
Skin Peels can be performed using a variety of ingredients. Glycolic acid, salicylic acid, and other exfoliating acids are often used, and your practitioner will tailor your active ingredients to suit your skin type and the desired outcome.
What are the benefits of a Chemical Skin Peel?
A peel can be a very effective way of softening fine lines and wrinkles, improving skin texture, minimising pigmentation and even reducing blackheads and whiteheads.
Which depth is best?
There are four main strengths and depths of chemical peel. Very superficial peels work on the dead surface cells only, and can be performed in-clinic or at home with over-the-counter products. In the clinic, superficial peels work on the epidermis, while medium-depth peels target both the epidermis and the upper dermis. Deep peels travel down to the lower layers of the dermis.
The exact strength of the peel should always be tailored to the patient’s individual skin and needs.
Most superficial peels don’t involve much downtime. Hydroxy-acid peels are great starter peels and also well suited to younger patients or those who prefer their skin not to be visibly flaking after treatment. Superficial peels are mild and the most commonly used type for improving skin texture and overall complexion. They work by removing part of the stratum corneum and sometimes the upper epidermis. They can improve discolouration, surface roughness, and texture, but also stimulate collagen production via communication between epidermal and dermal cells. With a superficial peel, you’ll achieve a more refined skin surface with a fresher, more vibrant skin tone and improved skin texture.
What is the best Chemical Skin Peel aftercare?
It goes without saying that skin requires gentle treatment following any kind of peel, so strip your skincare routine back and place any retinols, scrubs, and exfoliating acids on hold. It’s also beneficial to avoid applying make-up the following day.
After any peel, it’s essential to wear daily broad-spectrum sun protection with SPF50 for around four months – if you don’t already do this as a matter of routine!