Chemical peels consist of acids such as glycolic acid, trichloroacetic acid and salicylic acids to exfoliate the top layers of the skin in order to remove dead and dull skin, pigmentation, comedones (blackheads and whiteheads) and this allows newer and smoother skin to be revealed.
Chemical peels are an effective way to treat signs of aging such as pigmentation, fine lines and wrinkles and rough skin by promoting the growth of new skin with an smoother texture. Additionally, chemical peels also reduce discoloration resulting from skin insults (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation) or from melasma and they work by producing limited and controlled injury to the skin.
There are a variety of chemical used for chemical peels. They can be classified according to the depth of the chemical peel performed.
Step 1: The face is cleaned Step 2: The chemical is applied to the skin Step 3: The chemical peel is neutralised to terminate the chemical peel.
Chemical peels are especially useful in treating acne. Chemical peels exfoliate the skin to get rid of comedones and unclog pores to reduce acne severity and recurrence. At the same time, chemical peels also reduce the appearance of dark marks from acne called post inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
There is no downtime with superficial chemical peels and you can resume your usual skincare, makeup and daily activities after the chemical peel. During the treatment, acids lift away dead cells and signals are sent to the living cells below to multiply and move up, to increase collagen production – Overall, to reveal radiant and younger skin. Moreover, your skincare products perform better after a chemical peel because there are no dead cells impeding their penetration.
Chemical peels are generally safe with low risks of complications such as burns if performed safely by an experienced doctor.
Chemical peels do not feel painful. You might experience warmth and itch during the chemical peel but these are very transient and disappear immediately after the chemical peel has been terminated.