Chemical peels can be a great way to rejuvenate aging, sun-damaged skin. In fact, they’re so popular, about a million chemical peels are performed each year in the United States, making them the third most popular, minimally invasive cosmetic treatment overall.
At Starkey Medical Esthetics, Michele Meinhart, FNP, offers different types of chemical peels to help women and men in Salem, Virginia, turn back the clock on sun-damaged, aging skin. Here’s how to decide which type of peel is right for you.
Chemical peels use special solutions that lift off the upper layers of damaged skin. Depending on the solution that’s used, the length of the application, and other factors, peels can be used to correct a number of skin issues, like:
Some peels promote the production of a protein called collagen, which helps your skin look and feel firmer and smoother.
During a peel treatment, the provider first cleanses your skin, then applies the solution, leaving it on your skin for a specific amount of time before washing it off and neutralizing its effects. While the solution is on your skin, you may feel some tingling or stinging sensations as the chemicals do their work.
After your peel, your skin will be red and mildly tender, similar to how your skin looks and feels after a sunburn. Most peels cause your skin to flake off after a few days, revealing fresher, smoother skin.
Our team recommends having a microdermabrasion treatment prior to your peel. Microdermabrasion helps prepare your skin, so you enjoy the maximum benefits of your peel.
The strength of a peel depends on the type of chemical it uses and the length of time it stays on your skin.
Light peels use chemicals like alpha hydroxy acids and beta hydroxy acids to remove the uppermost layer of skin. These peels are ideal for treating:
There’s no real downtime after a light peel, making it a great choice for anyone who wants a quick skin “refresher” without interfering with their busy routine.
Medium peels use chemicals like trichloroacetic acid (TCA) to penetrate more deeply than a light peel. These peels can be a good option for anyone who wants to:
After a medium peel, you can expect your skin to flake and peel for about a week or so. Typically by two weeks, your skin is completely healed.
The deepest type of peel is a phenol peel. Though it can be effective in eliminating deep folds and lines, it does come with some serious risks. Our team offers other types of peels combined with microdermabrasion to help soften deeper lines and wrinkles without the risks associated with phenol treatments.
The American Society of Plastic Surgeons says a chemical peel is “one of the most cost-effective ways to improve the appearance of your skin.” If you’re ready to reveal skin that looks and feels fresher, healthier, and more youthful, call Starkey Medical Esthetics, or book an appointment online and learn how we can help.
