Everything You Need to Know About Chemical Peels

If you have tried every skincare solution under the sun and feel as if your skin still is not refreshed, you may want to consider a chemical peel. Chemical peels were once rather inaccessible, with only high-profile celebrities indulging in them. But due to the proliferation of med spas and their growing popularity, it is now much easier for the everyday person to get a chemical peel. So the question is, why haven’t you gotten one already? Perhaps you think, as some people do, that chemical peels sound rather intense. Maybe you are a little nervous about how they work. With that in mind, let’s explore the inner workings of chemical peels, and make this treatment a bit easier to understand.

How Do Chemical Peels Work?

If you have not had a chemical peel before, they may be rather intimidating. But in fact, the process is much simpler. Essentially, a chemical peel involves the application of certain acids (which are safe to use, of course) that raise the acidity of your skin to roughly a 3.8 pH level. Usually, your skin’s pH level will be around 5.5. When the pH level is changed, the cells that connect dead skin and healthy skin loosen, which allows the dead skin to be exfoliated. The healthy skin is revealed, and the continued growth of new, healthy skin cells is encouraged.

What Are the Acids?

The acids that are used in this process include alpha-hydroxy acids, or AHA acids, and beta hydroxy acids, or BHA acids. AHA acids include lactic acids, mandelic acids, malic acids, citric acids, and glycolic acids. They are typically derived from foods and treat issues like scarring, unevenness, and hyperpigmentation. BHA acids are usually salicylic acids, which penetrate the pores to dissolve contaminants like oils and dirt.

What Do I Need to Know About Effects?

There is a large range of chemical peels to address specific skin concerns as well as skin types. Those that should abstain include those who are sunburnt, nursing or pregnant mothers, those with open wounds or sores, people with certain cancers or autoimmune disorders, or those that have taken acutance within the past six months. Depending on the peel may be some mild discomfort and dry skin following the peel.

A chemical peel is good for your skin and can leave you feeling refreshed and renewed. To take advantage of these benefits, make an appointment with The Center For Women’s Aesthetics today!