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No skincare treatment catches flak like chemical peels. Some people love shedding a few layers of skin to reveal a more even canvas. On the flip side, others are not enthusiastic about possibly sporting a short-lived strawberry-red complexion. No matter where you stand with the controversial treatment, it’s important to do your due diligence before moving forward.
So, what exactly is a chemical peel?
According to NYC- and Charlotte-based esthetician Essence Moore, “chemical peels are a method of deep exfoliation performed by a skin care professional to treat advanced concerns like hyperpigmentation, acne and wrinkles.” Chemical peels range from light to deep treatments, which are recommended based on skin tone and type, along with skincare issues in mind. Light treatments use mild acids (glycolic, lactic, and maleic acids). As for deep peels, more potent acids, including carbolic (phenol) and trichloroacetic acids, are used to penetrate lower skin levels.
Although chemical peels are traditionally an in-office procedure, at-home options (typically a light treatment) are also available. No matter which route you take, it’s essential to consult with an esthetician or dermatologist before getting a treatment.
What does the chemical peel procedure consist of?
The process starts with a cleansing session to remove dirt, oil, and debris from the skin. Next, a chemical solution, ranging from alpha hydroxy acid to trichloroacetic acid, is applied to the skin.
Then, your esthetician or dermatologist will leave the chemical on the skin for a predetermined time, allowing it to work its magic and loosen your skin. Your skin specialist may provide a fan or cold compress to counteract burning or stinging sensations. Next, the chemical will be washed off with water and/or neutralized. The skin will heal for the next few days and/or weeks, resulting in peeling and redness. Over time, your skin will slowly reveal a more bright and youthful complexion.
If you’re ready to elevate your beauty game with regular chemical peels, it’s important to cover all the bases for a successful session. Essence is giving us the full rundown on everything you should know to help you keep your skin in tip-top shape. Here are six tips you should keep in mind before, during, and after your chemical peel treatment.
1. Chemical peels should be performed regularly to achieve desired results.
Like all skincare products, consistency is key to bringing your healthy and radiant skin goals to life. “Chemical peels are most effective when performed in a series of 3-6 sessions at 2-4 week intervals,” Essence exclusively tells HelloBeautiful.
2. Chemical peels are not exclusive to specific skin types.
It’s common for folks with sensitive or combination skin to be weary about receiving specific treatments out of fear of irritation. Essence shares that various skin peels on the market cater to all skin types. Make sure to consult with your derm or esthetician for the best treatment recommendation.
3. Complications can become a reality without proper preparation.
Since chemical peels involve removing top layers from your skin, it’s imperative to ensure that your canvas is in ideal shape. If not, you can experience adverse effects from the treatment, including uneven results, skin darkening, raw skin, and more.
“To prepare your skin, you should be applying (and reapplying) your sunscreen daily as well as using hydrating ingredients,” she says. “It is important to discontinue the use of retinol and exfoliating acids the week leading up to your appointment.”
4. Avoid pulling peeling skin at all costs.
Although it may be tempting, picking or pulling on peeling skin is not a good idea. It can interrupt your skin’s healing and cause redness and scarring.
“Depending on the depth and strength of the peel, superficial peeling may occur. If it does, you should avoid pulling the skin and let the falling happen naturally,” Essence tells us. “It’s helpful to incorporate sheet masks to alleviate dryness. The peeling can go on for 4-10 days.”
5. Breakouts are normal post-treatment.
Post-peel blemishes are not a sign of an adverse effect. In fact, it’s a sign that your skin is well on its healing journey by clearing out impurities beneath the skin’s surface.
“It’s super common to break out following a peel as the deep exfoliation can bring congestion out of the pores,” Essence tells us. “Icing them with an ice cube or ice roller can help to soothe the inflammation.”
6. Allow your skin to heal before applying makeup.
For some people, makeup application is a daily practice. However, Essence says it’s important not to resume your makeup routine until your skin has stopped peeling and healed from the treatment. Unfortunately, applying makeup prematurely can clog your pores, cause irritation, and damage your skin.
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