What is a Professional Chemical Peel?
A chemical peel is a cosmetic procedure that involves the application of a chemical solution to the skin to exfoliate the top layer(s) of damaged, dead skin cells. The goal of a chemical peel is to improve the skin's appearance and texture by removing the damaged outer layers, revealing fresher, smoother, and more youthful-looking skin underneath.
Chemical peels can be performed on various areas of the body, including the face, neck, chest, and hands, and can help improve a range of skin concerns, such as fine lines and wrinkles, acne scars, hyperpigmentation, and uneven skin tone and texture.
There are three main types of chemical peels:
Superficial or light peels: This type of peel uses a mild acid, such as alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA), to exfoliate only the outermost layer of skin.
Medium peels: This type of peel uses a stronger acid, such as glycolic acid or trichloroacetic acid (TCA), to exfoliate the outer and middle layers of skin.
Deep peels: This type of peel uses a strong acid, such as phenol, to penetrate the deeper layers of skin and remove more significant damage.
Chemical peels can be performed by a medical professional or a trained skincare professional. The procedure can cause some temporary redness, swelling, and peeling, but these side effects usually subside within a few days to a week, depending on the depth of the peel. It's important to follow the post-treatment care instructions carefully and to avoid sun exposure and other potential irritants during the healing process.