If you’re on what seems like a forever quest to achieve radiant, youthful skin, you may want to consider a facial chemical peel. One of the best-kept secrets in skincare and aesthetics, chemical peels for the face are tried-and-true treatments that help rejuvenate and revitalize the skin. Unlike a skin-boosting laser, chemical peels for the face involve using acid-based solutions to create controlled exfoliation, shedding layers of damage and promoting collagen production. The result? Smoother, more even-toned skin. If you’re curious about how a chemical peel works, here’s everything you need to know.
How long does it take to see results from a chemical peel?
Different peels take different lengths of time to produce results. Most face chemical peels show results within the first few days to one week, but a lot depends on it, including the type of peel, your skin type, and the concerns addressed. Mild peels generally garner results, like improved texture and tone and decreased breakouts, within about one week of the treatment. However, for more noticeable and dramatic results, it may take a series of treatments over several months to achieve ideal results. Medium-strength peels use more potent acids for more noticeable results. These peels usually produce results within seven to ten days, and the benefits may continue to improve over the coming months.
Can I see results after one peel?
Some peels will deliver results after just one session, but others require a series of chemical peels to improve the skin on the face. The reason why multiple chemical peels for the face are often recommended is because the effects are cumulative. With each treatment, the improvement progresses, especially when treating skin concerns such as acne scars, fine lines, uneven skin tone, or pigmentation issues. Superficial peels necessitate several treatment sessions, whereas stronger peels require fewer treatments, or even just one, to show skin improvement.
How long after a chemical peel will my skin peel?
Some chemical peels cause skin flaking and shedding, and others don’t. It’s normal for the skin to shed and flake after a facial chemical peel, even light ones. Skin peeling signifies that the exfoliating effects of the treatment are taking hold. The skin may start to peel about day five or seven after a peel. No matter what, don’t pick at the skin. It’s best to let the exfoliation process take its natural course and fall off. Picking and pulling at flaking or peeling skin, or even exfoliating it with scrubs and exfoliators, can cause hyperpigmentation.
How much is a face chemical peel?
The cost of the chemical peel varies from person to person, although they are one of the more budget-friendly skin treatments that offer a lot of bang for your buck. The type of peel used and whether it’s done after a facial or other skin treatments are factors in the overall price. Also, repeat sessions can influence the overall price. We recommend a consultation for a detailed estimate to determine your treatment’s cost.
Are facial chemical peels suitable for all skin tones?
Almost all skin tones can benefit from a chemical peel (a consultation is necessary to ensure there are no potential risks involved), including those with uneven skin tone, fine lines, poor skin texture, active acne, acne scarring, large pores, and dull-looking skin. In the past, darker skin tones weren’t appropriate to undergo chemical peels, but today, chemical peels can be used on darker skin tones. Of course, the person performing the peel must understand darker skin and its needs.
Will I feel my skin burning during a chemical peel on the face?
The lighter the peel, the less sensation you’ll feel on the skin; the more substantial the peel, the more you’ll feel. Typically, most chemical peels give way to a ‘spicy’ feeling on the skin and can incite the sensation of itchiness or even a tingling effect. Buffered acids shouldn’t burn the skin, but there may be some slight discomfort, which is short-lived. When the chemical peel is neutralized, you shouldn’t feel anything on the skin.
What is the recovery like?
All chemical peels remove the uppermost layers of skin, like a laser. The recovery isn’t nearly as intense as a laser since they reach deeper into the skin. Still, with a peel, there will likely be some minor swelling, redness, flaking, and peeling, so keeping the skin well-hydrated with a good moisturizer or ointment is essential. It’s also normal for the skin to look like it has a sunburn, be flaky, and shed large pieces of skin. Still, you’ll see an improvement in the texture and color of your skin.
How should I care for my skin after a face chemical peel?
You’ll always want to follow your provider’s instructions to keep your skin healthy as it heals after a peel. You’ll want to avoid using exfoliating acids, including retinol, for at least a few days. Also, there’s no need to use scrubs or exfoliators on the skin after a peel. However, your aesthetician will let you know when it’s okay to resume using these products. Sunscreen is a must-do to keep the skin even, prevent scarring and discoloration, and help it to heal healthily. Remember, as the skin is healing, it is susceptible to damage from UV radiation, and sun exposure can lead to pigmentation issues.
Can a face chemical peel help with acne and scars?
Chemical peels are highly effective in reducing the appearance of acne scars and fine lines by promoting collagen production and exfoliating damaged skin. Deeper peels are generally more effective for these concerns.
How long will the results last?
Different peels have different durations of results. The stronger and deeper the peel, the longer the results. More superficial peels provide results that last for less time, which is why maintenance treatments are always recommended. To maintain the results, it’s important to practice good skincare habits.
