For those seeking a non-invasive way to address most aesthetic concerns, chemical peels are a safe and viable option. A chemical peel is a professional exfoliating treatment that uses certain acids to resurface skin. Learn what to expect from these treatments by reading this guide and scheduling a consultation at The Breazeale Clinic in Knoxville, TN.
Chemical Peel Benefits
Chemical peels offer several benefits. First, the treatment is completely non-invasive, which makes it ideal for those who scar easily or have sensitive skin. Peels are also a good choice for patients who don’t want to use surgical or ablative (laser) treatments to resolve their aesthetic concerns. Other chemical peel benefits include those listed below.
Effective Acne Management
Patients with acne-prone skin typically find it difficult to regulate oil protection, exfoliate, and control breakouts. Although hormones and genetics largely determine most aspects of acne, a chemical peel in Knoxville, TN will do much to improve the look of skin that’s been affected by acne. Additionally, chemical peels are often used to eliminate harmful bacteria, reduce oil production, and encourage cell turnover.
Shrinking Enlarged and Clogged Pores
In many cases, skin history determines the size of a person’s pores, and those with previous acne are likely to be affected. Thankfully, chemical peels and other exfoliating treatments can reduce the appearance of visible pores while making the skin look smoother. If you’re dealing with constant blackheads and whiteheads, a chemical peel may be just what you need to enjoy clean, clear skin. Contact us for more information or to schedule a consultation.
Correcting Hyperpigmentation
Hyperpigmentation or uneven skin tone is a common concern among our patients. Whether it’s caused by sun damage or acne scarring, it’s nearly impossible to correct hyperpigmentation with over-the-counter treatments. Chemical peels, however, can reduce or eliminate even the most stubborn cases. The acids used in these professional facials remove multiple layers of skin cells at once, revealing the fresh, smooth, and even-toned skin underneath.
Minimizing Wrinkles and Fine Lines
For those with age-related skin concerns like crow’s feet, wrinkles, and fine lines, one of the biggest benefits of a chemical peel is its ability to reduce the earliest signs of aging. While a peel won’t boost collagen production in the deepest layers of skin, top-level exfoliation will lessen the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
A Reduction in Visible Scarring
Dermatologists often find it difficult to help patients with scarring, simply because it affects more than one skin layer. This safe, effective exfoliating treatment removes cell layers that are affected by scars. Whether you’re searching for a way to reduce the appearance of scars from acne or previous injuries, a chemical peel is a great place to start.
Treatment of Rosacea
Rosacea is an inflammatory, bothersome skin condition that causes swelling, redness, and bumpiness. In some cases, acne-like breakouts also occur. For many patients, chemical peels relieve the symptoms of mild and moderate rosacea. If you’ve been diagnosed with rosacea, contact our clinic today to learn how a chemical peel may help.
A Balanced and Smooth Complexion
Chemical peels are also a great way to smooth and balance an uneven complexion and they’re an effective part of a long-term treatment plan. With frequent peels, it is possible for patients to bring their skin back into balance and enjoy a more radiant and youthful complexion. Some find that, with multiple treatments, they need fewer cosmetics to improve their skin’s appearance.
Making Skincare Products More Effective
When dull, dead surface cells are removed during a chemical peel, the new, living cells underneath are brought to the surface and signaled to multiply. The body, in turn, boosts its production of collagen, improving the skin’s elasticity and youthful appearance.
Smoother skin doesn’t just look more radiant; it also absorbs skincare products more readily. Your favorite lotions, serums, and creams will all work better after a chemical peel.
Why It’s Best to Seek Professional Advice
With professional peels, patients are under the care and supervision of certified cosmetic surgeons and aestheticians. Before treatment begins, the practitioner will examine your skin, determine your candidacy for the procedure, and choose a peel type.
Chemical peels aren’t a one-size-fits-all skincare solution. Each peel type is chosen based on what’s best for the patient’s skin type, condition, and aesthetic goals. Treatments are monitored closely, with careful observation taking place once the peel is applied.
After the peel and during healing, our team is available to answer any questions patients have about their skin. Having access to licensed professionals before, during, and following treatment is one of the biggest advantages of a chemical peel. Contact us today to find out why our services are so much better and safer than over the counter and do-it-yourself products.
Chemical Peels Are a Customizable Option
A primary reason for the success of chemical peels is that product selections can be customized to suit a patient’s skin type, tone, and care needs. The most used acids for chemical peels include:
- Glycolic
- Salicylic
- Lactic
- Beta hydroxy
- Alpha hydroxy
Furthermore, chemical concentrations can be customized to suit a patient’s skin sensitivity level. We’ll outline the most common chemical peel types in the second half of our guide.
Light Chemical Peels
The most common chemical peel type, light peels are designed to remove the topmost layers of skin—which makes them the best option for a regular skincare routine. Light chemical peels address mild or moderate scarring, fine lines, and hyperpigmentation, and they are often recommended for the management of recurring acne.
Medium Chemical Peels
A medium chemical peel, as the name implies, peels skin down to its middle layers. Medium peels are an appropriate way to address moderate concerns, including enlarged pores, wrinkles, acne scarring, and sun damage. Those who want to tighten and lift their skin often use these peels.
Deep Chemical Peels
Finally, deep chemical peels remove several skin cell layers. They’re often used to spot-treat suspicious blemishes or to correct all-over signs of sun damage and aging.
What to Expect From a Chemical Peel
On average, a chemical peel takes a half hour from start to finish. During each treatment, the skin will be cleansed thoroughly to remove makeup and dirt, neutralize the surface, and prepare for the peel. After the acid solution sits on the skin for a few minutes, it’ll be removed with a special neutralizing solution that restores the skin’s pH balance. Depending on the treatment plan, each peel may be followed up with soothing facial serums and other treatments.
What Patients Should Do to Prepare for a Chemical Peel
Because chemical peels are exfoliating treatments, it’s important not to use other exfoliants for at least a week beforehand. Using chemical skincare products right before a peel will make the skin more sensitive and affect the treatment’s results. Even if the at-home exfoliants you’re using are low in acid, it is recommended that they be avoided.
Chemical peels don’t interact well with certain medications, such as birth control and antibiotics, so it’s best to discuss your medicines with the doctor before treatment begins. Patients may have to stop taking certain supplements and vitamins that cause photosensitivity.
What to Do After a Chemical Peel
After a successful chemical peel, patients should keep their skin hydrated and protected from the sun. Hydration is especially important because the skin is shedding layers, exposing that underneath to environmental risks. Using a fragrance-free, simple cream moisturizer with hyaluronic acid and ceramides is the most effective way to soothe skin after a peel.
The new skin revealed with a chemical peel will be vulnerable to UV damage, and products with an SPF of 30 to 50 will prevent hyperpigmentation. Mineral and chemical sunscreens are equally effective, though it may be best to wait at least a week after treatment before using mineral-based products.
Recommended Treatment Intervals
A chemical peel’s depth typically determines treatment intervals. For instance, light peels can be done every 30 to 45 days, while it’s best to have a medium peel three to six times per year. Most patients only get one deep peel per year, with most of these treatments being done for medical rather than aesthetic reasons.
Maintaining the Results of a Chemical Peel
The most effective way to maintain a chemical peel’s results is to avoid habits and activities that lead to skin problems. Patients receiving peels should use sunscreen every day, even when it’s cloudy. A consistent skincare routine will help maintain a clear, even complexion, as will the use of products that are made for your skin type.
Chemical Peels Revitalize Skin
The use of aesthetic treatments such as chemical peels will restore the youthful, radiant look of sun-damaged, acne-prone, and aging skin. These treatments are a versatile, effective way to address various skin concerns. If you would like more information on the benefits of chemical peels, we invite you to schedule an appointment with us at The Breazeale Clinic in Knoxville, TN. Click to fill out our online form or call now to schedule a consultation.
