Chemical Peels: What you need to know before booking one

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If you’re into skincare (or just like glowing skin), you’ve probably heard about chemical peels. They sound intense—and, well, they can be! But they’re also one of the best treatments for refreshing your complexion, tackling skin concerns like acne, hyperpigmentation, and fine lines. Before you rush to book a session, here’s a lowdown on what chemical peels are and what you should look out for when considering one.

What exactly is a chemical peel?

A chemical peel is a treatment where a chemical solution is applied to your skin, typically your face, to exfoliate and remove dead skin cells. It peels off the outer layer of skin, revealing smoother, brighter skin underneath. Depending on the type of peel you get, it can target various skin concerns:

Light peels are perfect for giving your skin a glow-up and improving texture.

Medium peels dive deeper, addressing pigmentation and fine lines.

Deep peels are serious business, targeting more stubborn issues like scars and deep wrinkles.

 

Think of a chemical peel as a way to fast-track your skin’s natural exfoliation process. But, before you dive into this world, there are a few things to keep in mind.

Read more: The ultimate guide to Hydrafacial: Your path to radiant skin

What should you look out for?

1. Know your skin type

Your skin type plays a big role in how it reacts to a chemical peel. People with sensitive skin or certain skin conditions like eczema or rosacea need to be cautious with stronger peels. The last thing you want is irritated, angry skin! If you have oily or acne-prone skin, light to medium peels could help control breakouts and reduce oil production.

 

2. Understand the types of peels

There are different types of acids used in chemical peels, and each has its unique benefits.

Glycolic acid derived from sugar cane, is great for exfoliating and improving overall skin tone. It’s a common choice for light to medium peels.

Salicylic acid is perfect for acne-prone skin – this acid helps unclog pores and reduce inflammation.

Lactic acid is a gentler option that works well for sensitive skin. It helps with hydration and mild exfoliation.

Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) is used in medium to deep peels, and this one’s for more serious concerns like deeper pigmentation and wrinkles.

Knowing which acid works best for your skin can help you choose the right peel.

 

3. Consider your skin concerns

What are you hoping to fix with a peel? If you’re after smoother skin and a more even tone, a light peel will do the trick. For acne scars or sun damage, you might need something a bit stronger, like a medium or deep peel. Always talk to a skin professional to determine the best option for your skin goals.

Read more: Getting to the root of pigmentation and understanding the best treatment for you

4. Downtime matters

Not all chemical peels are created equal, and some require downtime. Light peels might only leave your skin a bit red and flaky for a day or two, but deep peels can lead to significant peeling and redness for up to a week or more. Make sure you’re prepared for the recovery process, especially if you have events or special occasions coming up.

 

5. Sun protection is non-negotiable

After a chemical peel, your skin will be more sensitive to the sun, which means sunscreen is a must! You’ll need to be diligent with SPF, even if you’re just running errands. The last thing you want is to undo all the good work of your peel by exposing your fresh skin to harmful UV rays.

 

6. Set realistic expectations

Chemical peels can work wonders, but they’re not a magic fix. While you might see a big difference after one peel, achieving your ultimate skin goals could require multiple sessions. Be patient, and don’t expect overnight miracles—especially with deeper concerns like scars or pigmentation.

 

7. Find a qualified professional

This one is key. A chemical peel should always be done by a licensed professional who knows their stuff. An experienced aesthetic doctor or dermatologist will assess your skin and recommend the right peel strength. Avoid DIY peels at home unless they’re super gentle and made for beginners (and even then, it’s best to get some guidance first).

 

8. Watch out for red flags

Aftercare is just as important as the peel itself. Your skin will be in recovery mode, so listen to your professional’s instructions about aftercare. If you notice extreme redness, swelling, or burning beyond what was explained, reach out to your provider. These could be signs of an adverse reaction.

 

Chemical peels are a fantastic way to refresh your skin and tackle stubborn issues, but they do require some careful consideration. Understanding your skin, choosing the right peel, and finding a qualified professional will ensure that you get the best results—without any unnecessary risks. And don’t forget, sunscreen is your best friend post-peel! Now you’re all set to peel back the layers (literally) and reveal your best skin yet.