Chemical peels can transform your skin. But are they safe? Let’s find out

The beauty industry is constantly innovating, and presenting us skincare enthusiasts with products that don’t just promise amazing results, but deliver them too! Recently, there has been much buzz around chemical peels. An increasing number of people have been raving about how these can enhance your dermal health. 

Ready to find out how? But before that, let’s find out more about chemical peels.

What are chemical peels?

A chemical peel is basically a procedure, where a chemical agent is applied to the skin and when removed, it also removes the top layer. It may sound a little scary, but the idea is when the skin heals, it will result in a smoother texture and an even skin tone. Chemicals such as salicylic acid, lactic acid and glycolic acid are used for different skin issues.

In what way do chemical peels improve the skin?

Chemical peels are aimed at improving the overall health of our skin. This means that chemical peels can:

• Reduce fine lines
• Deal with dark spots
• Reduce the appearance of wrinkles
• Even out the skin tone
• Fade acne scarring

There are three types of chemical peels which are used, depending on the dermal issue that needs to be treated:

1. Superficial peels

Mild acids like alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) are used to deeply exfoliate the skin. Superficial peels only affect the outer layer of the skin, removing the dead skin cells and adding a natural glow to the face.

2. Medium peels

The acids used are slightly stronger than the ones found in superficial peels. The aim is to affect not just the outer layer, but also the middle layer of the skin in order to heal the damaged cells. Acids like trichloroacetic acid or glycolic acid are used. This type of peel is suited for those who want an even skin tone, a reduction in the appearance of acne scars and smooth skin.

3. Deep peels

Aimed at penetrating the middle layer of the skin, strong chemical agents like phenol or trichloroacetic acid are used to effectively deal with issues such as the appearance of fine lines and scarring. This version of chemical peels is best for those looking at anti-ageing effects.

How is a chemical peel procedure done?

The dermatologist will clean your skin and apply a layer of chemical peel. It might sting or cause a burning sensation, within the first few minutes of application.

Once the procedure is over and the chemical peel has been taken off, you might notice some pain and redness. There is, however, no need to worry because this is the intended effect of the procedure. Remember, mild wounding is what will give way to healing and improve skin health. Your skin will heal within a couple of days.

However, it is to be noted that when your skin has just been through a chemical peel procedure, it is sensitive and you should avoid going out in the sun, in order to reduce your discomfort and ensure that healing takes place in time.

Where to go for this procedure?

Initially, one could get a chemical peel procedure only at a dermatologist’s office but now, there are various at-home chemical peels available in the market. It is, however, important to keep in mind that you should ideally talk to your dermatologist, before applying a chemical peel to your skin at home.

What’s more, stronger peels which can give you enhanced results are only available with a dermatologist. So, if you’re looking simply at deep exfoliation, then at-home chemical peels can do the perfect job, but for something like scarring and anti-ageing, you would need a stronger acid.

So ladies, give chemical peels a shot and you won’t be disappointed!