Chemical Peels – An Ultimate Guide

Do you dread the words “chemical” and “peel”? Then this one is for you. With the help of specialized professionals at Skin Studio, we put all your worries regarding chemical peels at rest. Want to learn more? Read along! 

Chemical Peels

Chemical peels are in-office procedures that are carried out by a certified practitioner. During this process, a chemical agent is applied to the skin, which raises the acidity of the skin. Changing the PH of the skin allows the old cells to loosen and slough off, revealing newer skin that is generally more clear and softer as well.

This procedure can be performed on the hands, neck, face and many other areas of the body. The procedure works to advance the overall appearance of the skin and are generally made of chemicals such as carbolic acid (phenol), lactic acid, salicylic acid, trichloroacetic acid, and glycolic acid.

Types Of Chemical Peels

There are three types of chemical peels:

• Deep Peel – An acid such as trichloroacetic acid is used to penetrate deeply through the middle layers of the skin. Deep peels can have a wonderful impact on the skin. Age spots, freckles, and scars can be treated with deep peels. These peels pose higher risk and require substantial downtime.

• Medium Peel – Middle layers of the skin are exfoliated with the help of acids. It can be used to treat skin discoloration, freckles, fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots.

• Superficial Peel – A mild acid is used to go through just the top layer of the skin. It is used to treat slight skin discoloration and rough skin while stimulating collagen production. A superficial peel is even known as a “lunchtime peel”.

Advantages Of Chemical Peels

You will be surprised to know that chemical peels are more than just safe exfoliators. In addition to getting rid of dead skin cells, chemical peels can even decrease fine lines around the eyes and mouth and deal with wrinkles caused by sun damage. The procedure fades away dark spots, melasma, dark patches, freckles, age spots, and acne scars.

What To Look Forward To Before, During And After A Chemical Peel

Before

• Seek advice from a certified physician, nurse or esthetician before having a chemical peel. It may not be recommended if you’ve taken medications for acne such as Accutane or are prone to frequent cold sores,  or experience abnormal skin pigmentation.
• Keep away from massages, bleaching, scrubbing, and waxing a week before the procedure and avoid using retinoids or retinol for two days prior to the proceudre.
• If you have a darker skin tone, your practitioner may start you on an at home program with certain skincare products prior to your peel in order to prep your skin. This will reduce the chance of any risks associated with pigment changes.

During

• You may experience a burning or itching sensation for a few minutes once the product is applied.
• A peeling solution is applied to the area for a specific amount of time, after which a neutralizing solution may be applied depending on the type of peel.
• For a medium peel, the dermatologist may give you a sedative. For a deep peel, you’ll be given local anesthesia. For a light peel, painkillers are not necessary. 

After

• After the treatment, you may observe redness to the area treated. The amount of time the redness lasts will again depend on the type of peel you have. You may also experience flaking or peeling of the skin for around three to seven days.
• Post procedure skincare may be given to you for use at home following the procedure. Be sure to use these products as they aid in quick and efficient healing of the skin.
• After a chemical peel, the skin is more sensitive to the sun. It is very important to protect the skin using a broad spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30 or above. Limit the exposure to the sun when the rays of the sun are at their strongest. Tip: Most people tend to avoid this procedure during the summer months.

The Right Age For A Chemical Peel

You can begin chemical peels in your twenties. The experienced nurses at Skin Studio believe that using chemical peels in your twenties and thirties will keep your skin healthy and glowing! On the plus side, they also stimulate collagen which will keep you looking younger during the later years as well.

However, chemical peels aren’t just for ageing skin. Acne sufferers can also find respite in chemical peels. Chemical peels aid in skin exfoliation and promote cell turnover. They decrease blackheads, unclog pores, and decrease sebum production.

Please note that at Skin Studio we only perform superficial peels. These peels are very safe and are catered to an individuals’ specific skin concerns.

Are you looking for specialized skincare consultations in Toronto? Skin Studio is always worth checking out! Book an appointment at skinstudiotoronto@gmail.com or call us at 416-804-7256 to find out more about chemical peels today!