CHEMICAL PEELS: WHAT IS IT?
Chemical peels improve the skin appearance by inflicting blisters that eventually peel off, leaving a softer, radiant complexion underneath. Some other benefits of Chemical peels include:
Enhancing the look and feel of the skin
Improving appearance of mild scars, age spots and dark patches
Diminishing fine lines and wrinkles
Reducing fine lines under the eyes and around the mouth
Treating acne and fighting the overproduction of sebum
Chemical Peels
Common Ingredients
Used for Chemical Peels
COMMON INGREDIENTS USED FOR chemicial PEELS
Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) – acids such as AHA are a common ingredient in chemical peels. It is a mild, naturally occurring acid that exfoliates the skin while boosting hydration.
Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA) – this acid is a little stronger and sinks deeper into the pores to better exfoliate and clean. It is recommended for oily skin.
Lactic Acid – this acid not only exfoliates the skin but also deeply moisturises. It stimulates the production of hyaluronic acid in the skin.
Salicylic Acid – this acid is an ideal peeling agent that is also used to treat various skin disorders. It is superior in treating acne, large pores and even blackheads.
Glycolic Acid – this is a popular ingredient that promises to smoothen the skin and stimulate collagen production. This is often recommended for those who are new to facial peels.
3 TYPES OF Chemical Peels
Deep Peels – using this peel causes stinging or a burning sensation as it penetrates deeply into the skin. It usually contains acids like carbolic acid or trichloroacetic acid (TCA) that can cause redness or burns, and visible peeling or flaking on the face.
Medium Peels – this peel uses a lighter solution of TCA but still results in redness. It removes skin cells from both the epidermis (outer layer skin) as well as the upper part of the dermis (middle layer skin) and may take up to 7 days of downtime.
Light peels – this gentle version of peels is effective yet doesn’t result in redness or require recovery. However, even with gentle peels, you will still have to limit your sun exposure and wear protective sunscreen.
4 STEPS TO AN EFFECTIVE chemical PEEL ROUTINE
1. SELECTION
Choose the type of peel based on your needs. The factors that you must consider include the problem you want to address and your skin type.
TIP: If you are using facial peels for the first time, choose a product with the lowest concentration of chemicals possible. Increase the strength as your skin gets used to it over time.
2. PREPARATION
Condition your skin by stopping the use of tretinoin-based products at least a week before your peel as this may irritate your skin.
Then, gently exfoliate your face the day prior to your peel. After washing, apply a pH solution to prepare your skin for the peel.
NOTE: Do a patch test before peeling. If your skin reacts negatively, do not use the peel.
3. APPLICATION
To start with the application of facial peel, cleanse your face using water and a soap-free cleanser. Finish it with an application of a mild astringent like witch hazel.
Next, avoid applying the peel to sensitive areas such as around your eyes, nostrils or corners of your lips. Lather petroleum jelly to these areas to keep them from the acid.
Finally, apply an even coat of the facial peel solution to your skin using a cotton ball. Start with the less sensitive areas – forehead, chin and cheeks, continuing to the lower eyelids, nose and neck area.
Leave the peel on for a recommended length of time or less. If your skin starts turning pink even before its time, wash it off. Apply a neutralizing solution to stop the chemicals from working.
4. POST APPLICATION
Apply a liberal amount of moisturizer to your face right after peeling. Don’t allow your skin to dry out and reapply as much as 10 to 20 times throughout the day. Don’t pick at it as it may cause damage.
Soothe redness using cool products like aloe vera gel, cooling masks or ice packs. Redness and stinging are normal after your peel but these can help ease them.
After your peel, stay out of the sun until redness subsides. Wear sunscreen on your face if you really have to go outdoors.
Gently rinse your face twice a day with soap-less cleanser or water. Splash lukewarm water on your face and do not rub. Pat your skin dry with a clean towel.
Avoid putting pressure on your face until the skin completely heals. Avoid rubbing your cheek or forehead, even on the pillow.