What is a ‘Chemical Peel’ and How Does It Work?

Many people have heard about chemical peels as a cosmetic skin treatment, but they are not familiar with what they are or when they should be used. Some people have had friends or family members who have had a chemical peel, and the results can be eye catching and even stunning. However, before you can determine if this is a procedure that you may benefit from, you may need to learn more about it.

What Is a Chemical Peel?

There are several different types of chemical peels, but all of the peels include the application of a chemical solution onto the face. This solution essentially will destroy the outer layer of the skin, and the skin will peel away. Essentially, this process removes older skin so that new skin cells are encouraged to grow, and this gives you a rejuvenated look.

How Does It Work?

Depending on the type of chemical peel that is used, the skin may begin to peel away within one day or within up to two weeks. Some peels are rather superficial in their results, and others will penetrate multiple layers into the skin. The most significant results will essentially give you the same results as a second-degree burn on the skin. They can be used to cause skin rejuvenation and fresh growth of skin cells, to bleach the skin or even to resurface the skin. Superficial peels may be performed repeatedly, but the deepest and most significant types of peels generally can only be performed one time safely. There are also medium peels that can be performed from time to time as needed.

Will This Give You the Results You Want?

You may be wondering if a chemical peel will give you the results you want. This is typically a type of cosmetic skin care treatment that can help you to improve the natural glow of your skin, to even out skin tone, to remove the appearance of blemishes and scars or even to lighten and brighten darker skin. Generally, the process must be completed by a specially trained professional in order to enjoy the best results. This can help you to look younger, but it is not suitable for improving all types of skin issues. If you have specific concerns about your skin, you may need to speak with your skin care specialist or dermatologist to learn more about the different treatments that are available to address your concerns.

When you are preparing to have a chemical peel treatment, you should take time to understand more about the results of the specific treatment that you are thinking about as well as the amount of time it will take to see results. You may also think about how much time it will take for your skin to peel away. Some people may want to remain at home during that period of time, and you can speak with your skin care specialist for more information about that before you decide how to proceed.