Chemical peels are an effective way to improve your skin. It can help minimize dark spots, dullness, fine lines, and wrinkles.

But before you head to your doctor’s office for treatment or search for something like “facial near me in Cherry Hill, NJ” to find a local service that you could book with, you should know a few things first. In this post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about chemical peels, so read on to learn more!

What is a Chemical Peel?

An aesthetic surgery called a chemical peel can lessen the visibility of wrinkles, UV damage, and acne scars. It also helps improve skin texture and tone and diminish the appearance of sunspots and hyperpigmentation (darkening or lightening of the skin).

Chemical peels are safe and effective when performed by a licensed and trained dermatologist or aesthetician. A skin consultation can help determine the appropriate type and strength of chemical peel treatments to address your unique concerns.

Deep peels penetrate the middle layer of your skin to remove damaged skin cells. These peels often use phenol, which is scientifically proven to promote more profound cellular healing and rejuvenation.

During the treatment, a solution is applied to your skin using a special brush or sponge and left on for a set time. You might experience stinging or burning, so a hand-held fan will be provided to cool your skin.

Afterward, your skin will be washed and neutralized. Your skin will be red and itchy but should return to normal in a few days.

What Advantages Do Chemical Peels Offer?

You may know the numerous advantages of a chemical peel, but you may need to find out if it’s the best option. This treatment can significantly boost your confidence and self-esteem by enhancing your skin’s natural beauty.

Various issues, including fine lines, wrinkles, age spots, acne scars, freckles, and hyper-pigmentation (melasma), can be improved depending on the kind and depth of the peel. It can also help reduce the appearance of sun damage that causes fine lines and blotchiness.

The ultimate goal of a chemical peel is to promote more profound cellular healing and rejuvenation. By removing the top layer of dead skin, other skincare products can better penetrate the skin and be absorbed more effectively, helping you achieve lasting results.

If you are a good candidate for a chemical peel, your dermatologist can customize a treatment plan that works best for you. Your doctor will examine your medical history and inquire about your expectations and aspirations for aesthetic procedures.

How Does a Chemical Peel Work?

Chemical peels are skin treatments that remove dead skin cells to improve the appearance of your complexion. They can reduce fine lines and wrinkles, brighten your skin, and even out the color.

The chemicals used in a peel raise your skin’s pH to around 3.8, which chemically loosens the bonds holding dead skin to healthy skin. It then allows the dead skin to slough off, leaving behind a fresh layer of new, smoother skin.

During your peel, the treatment will usually involve a stinging sensation with a warm to hot feeling in the treated area. A cool compress may be applied to alleviate this discomfort.

Depending on the depth of your peel, you’ll likely experience a sunburn-like reaction that may include redness and scaling, lasting anywhere from three to seven days. To prevent further irritation, avoid the sun during this period. After your peel, it’s essential to use a moisturizer and sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and wear a wide-brimmed hat to protect your skin from sun damage.

What Are the Side Effects of a Chemical Peel?

If you’re considering a chemical peel treatment, it’s essential to understand the possible side effects that may occur. Some of these side effects include redness, irritation, or peeling of your skin.

The severity of these side effects will vary depending on the type of peel you choose. Light chemical peels will only cause mild redness and irritation, while deeper peels can be more intense.

Your doctor will provide specific post-treatment instructions to minimize these effects and other complications. These include sun protection, cleansing, moisturizing, and applying protective ointments.

You’ll also need to avoid rubbing or scratching the skin. It can cause an infection or scarring.

Unless your doctor tells you differently, you should not use any products that contain retinoids one to two weeks before a chemical peel. Also, avoid tanning beds and other indoor tanning before a chemical peel to help your skin heal properly.

How to Prepare for a Chemical Peel

The best technique to treat the skin is using chemical peels. They remove flaky, dead skin cells and stimulate new cellular growth. They can also help improve skin tone and texture and reduce the appearance of wrinkles.

But before you can get a chemical peel, you must prepare your skin properly. It is done to ensure that your skin will heal correctly and avoid any potential side effects from the treatment.

The best way to prepare for a chemical peel is by booking an appointment with a professional skin care specialist. They will evaluate your skin type, health history, and medications and help you select the right peel for your needs.

Tell your doctor about any medication you have or have taken during your consultation. They may ask you to stop using them or recommend changing your dosage.

You were additionally, limiting your exposure to the sun in the weeks before your treatment is crucial. It will prevent the UV rays from deterring your body’s natural processes that regenerate new skin cells and help you achieve your desired results.