A chemical peel is a non-surgical cosmetic procedure that involves the removal of the outermost layer of skin through exfoliation. Your dermatologist will apply a chemical solution to dry out the outermost skin layer. Chemical peels Cypress can reveal a smoother layer of skin that is brighter and free of pigmentation issues.
Skin concerns that chemical peels can address
- Uneven skin tone
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Acne scars
- Dull skin
- Rough skin texture
Types of chemical peels
There are three major types of chemical peels. Your skin issues and desired outcome will dictate which chemical peel your dermatologist will use.
Light chemical peel
The light chemical peel addresses skin problems only on the top layer of your skin (epidermis). They are gentle and work on fine lines, acne scars, and texture problems. Since they are gentle, you have them done every month.
Medium chemical peel
A medium chemical peel works on the outermost skin layer and some parts of the middle skin layer (dermis). Since it goes deeper than a light peel, it deals with issues like wrinkles, acne scars, pigmentation problems, and age spots. You can safely undergo a medium chemical peel every 6 months since the results can last that long.
A good example of a medium-strength chemical peel is VI Peel which targets acne, scars, and other signs of early aging.
Deep chemical peel
The deep chemical peel will penetrate the dermis to address advanced skin concerns like deep wrinkles, textural abnormalities, and prominent scarring. Due to its intensity, you can only have one deep chemical peel in your life.
What happens during the procedure?
Depending on the chemical peel, your dermatologist will follow varied steps. For a light-strength peel, your dermatologist will use a cotton ball or sponge to apply a solution containing glycolic acid or salicylic acid. The treated area will begin to whiten, and your specialist will apply a neutralizing solution to remove the chemical solution.
After your dermatologist applies the chemical solution during the medium-strength peel, they will apply cool compresses or give you a handheld fan to soothe your skin. During a deep-strength peel, your specialist will give you intravenous (IV) fluids and monitor your heart rate. The procedure is done in patches and can take up to one and a half hours.
Recovery
Your dermatologist will give you instructions that include:
- Apply a protective ointment to prevent dryness
- Use an age-appropriate sunscreen after a light or medium-strength chemical peels
- Avoid the sun after a deep chemical peel until your specialist gives you the go-ahead
- Use over-the-counter (OTC) pain medication
- Use ice packs to soothe your skin
Risks and complications
Some complications your skin will undergo during and after the procedure include redness, swelling, itching, or burning sensation on the treated area. That’s why dermatologists recommend protective ointments.
If you want to eliminate fine lines, wrinkles, and acne scars, visit Magnolia Dermatology for treatment. Get to experience a friendly service that can help you with skin issues. Call or book an appointment online and transform your skin.