A chemical peel is a popular skin treatment that can help rejuvenate the skin. However, many people do not know how the procedure works.
A dermatologist with high-level training can help select the best chemical peel for your skin type and recommend the right timing for it. This will provide the following benefits: 1. Exfoliation.
1. Exfoliation
The process of sloughing away dead skin cells is a crucial part of any skincare routine. It helps your complexion look fresh and radiant while preventing clogged pores. However, too much exfoliation can actually make your skin look rough and dry, so it’s important to find a method that works for you. Whether you choose to physically scrub your face with a coarse exfoliant or chemically slough away the top layers of your skin with a light acid peel, it’s essential to do so in moderation.
Physical exfoliation involves scrubbing the skin with a scrub or rough, granular powder. This type of exfoliation can be too harsh for most people’s skin types, and it can cause irritability, redness, and even peeling skin on fingertips. Chemical exfoliation, on the other hand, uses a variety of ingredients to safely remove dead skin cells and improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It also allows other skin treatments to penetrate deeper into the skin for better results.
Most chemical exfoliants use acids to gently dissolve the glue that holds dead skin cells together, making it possible for the skin to shed them naturally. These acids can be either water- or oil-soluble, so they work differently on the different components of the skin’s matrix. For example, alpha hydroxy acids (glycolic, mandelic, lactic, and tartaric acid) loosen the glue on the surface of the skin, while beta hydroxy acids (salicylic acid) break down oil and soften protein.
Enzyme-based exfoliants are another option that can be a great fit for those with sensitive skin. These exfoliants, such as papain from papaya or bromelain from pineapple, have proteolytic properties, which break down protein and keratin in the skin’s outer layer and stimulate the natural cell renewal process.
Mechanical exfoliation uses technology to buff the skin. This can be done in the spa with microdermabrasion or diamond abrasion, as well as at home with a rotating device like a sonic exfoliator or a dermaplaning tool. It’s also important to keep in mind that your body’s skin is thicker than your facial skin, so be sure to use a scrub meant for the body on your face.
2. Regeneration
Like any material, skin is subject to daily wear and tear, sun exposure and chemical degradation. A constant influx of new cells from the basal layer of the epidermis keeps the skin smooth and supple, but as we age, this regenerative process slows down. Chemical peels are designed to restore this natural process by removing old layers of skin and stimulating the growth of new, healthy tissue. This results in renewed luster and an improved appearance, much like the light sanding of an older wood surface returns some of its luster and uniformity.
The types of chemicals used in peels vary, but they generally fall into two categories: acids and non-acids. Chemicals containing alpha hydroxy acids, such as glycolic acid, are the most popular type of peel, because they are water-soluble and can be used at home. However, these peels have a relatively high risk of irritation, so it is important to start out with the lowest possible concentration for the shortest amount of time.
Non-acid peels are more effective than alpha hydroxy acids in improving the appearance of the skin, but they may cause a little more irritation, so it is essential to avoid direct sunlight after these treatments. The most common non-acid peels contain ingredients such as salicylic acid, lactic acid, retinol and carbolic acid (phenol), and they are usually performed in a doctor’s office or surgery center as an outpatient procedure.
These peels work to treat fine lines, wrinkles and discoloration, especially in areas of the face that have been sun damaged. They are also effective in reducing the appearance of scars, particularly those from acne and other wounds. A peel should always be followed up with a comprehensive skin care regimen to maintain and prolong the effects of the treatment.
Several conditions can cause peeling of the skin, but it is important to see your dermatologist any time this symptom occurs. This professional can diagnose the underlying causes of the problem and create a plan to address them, whether it involves small changes to your at-home skincare routine or more involved procedures such as carbon dioxide laser resurfacing or facial surgery.
3. Reduction in Acne
Whether it’s caused by an allergic reaction, environmental factors or a medical condition, peeling skin can be painful and frustrating. The good news is that there are ways to reduce the symptom and heal the underlying problem.
Chemical peels are treatments designed to improve the appearance of aging and damaged skin. They involve applying a chemical solution to the skin to dissolve dead cells and speed up cell turnover. This can help smooth wrinkles, eliminate fine lines and wrinkles, and minimize scarring. Chemical peels are available in varying strengths and concentrations and can be used on the face, neck, chest, hands and body.
Dry skin can cause peeling. This occurs when there’s an imbalance of oils and moisture in the skin. This can be due to using the wrong cleansing products, excessive bathing or showering, or inadequate moisturizing. It can also be a side effect of some medications or autoimmune conditions.
Over-washing – Many cleansers contain harsh ingredients that can strip the skin of essential oils, leading to peeling. Using overly-abrasive scrubs or astringents can also irritate the skin and cause it to peel.
Heat exposure – Showering, bathing and washing the dishes can all strip the skin of its natural oils, which leads to peeling. This can also be a side effect of some medical conditions, such as psoriasis and eczema.
Genetic disorders – A few genetic conditions, such as aral peeling skin syndrome and Kawasaki disease, can lead to skin peeling and other symptoms. Medications and cancer treatment – Radiation and chemotherapy can be very drying on the skin, causing it to peel.
Other causes of peeling include seborrheic dermatitis and fungal infections like athlete’s foot or jock itch. Itching is often a symptom of these conditions, and peeling can occur in areas that are frequently sweaty, such as the elbows, knees, back of the wrists or groin.
It’s important not to pick at the skin when it starts to peel. This interferes with the skin’s natural healing process and can lead to infection. Instead, talk to your doctor about the underlying cause of your peeling. They will evaluate your symptoms, test (if necessary) and treat the condition to stop the skin from peeling.
4. Anti-aging
When the outer layer of skin sheds, it removes blemishes, scars and pigment changes, resulting in clearer, brighter and smoother skin. The peeling process also stimulates collagen production, which helps to reduce fine lines and wrinkles. Chemical peels can be done in a doctor’s office or at home using a professional kit. The best results come from a series of treatments, performed at regular intervals.
The skin is a complex organ, comprising 3 primary layers. The outermost layer, called the epidermis, is the thinnest and also the most visible. The epidermis serves many functions, protecting the body against germs and bacteria and making new skin cells to replace the thousands that die every day.
Conditions that cause peeling skin can include dryness and irritation from climate, health conditions and medications. A common example is dry skin of the fingertips (xerosis cutis). Frequent handwashing with soap may irritate the fingers, leading to this condition. Other causes of itchiness on the fingertips include herpes simplex, shingles and certain types of allergies and infections such as group A streptococcal infection or Stevens-Johnson syndrome.
Chemical peels can help to address all of these conditions, especially if the skin is not too thick or too dark. The key is working with a certified dermatologist or trained skin care specialist, who will be able to determine the proper type of peel and depth for each patient, based on their specific needs and treatment goals.
The most common chemical peels use alpha hydroxy acids. These are found in many foods, including glycolic acid, which comes from sugar cane and lactic acid, which is derived from milk. They can also be found in fruits and vegetables, such as lemon juice and pineapples. These acids cause a controlled injury to the skin, which then peels, revealing new skin underneath.
It is important to note that it takes time for beautiful, healthy skin to develop after a peel. If you are going to attempt a peel at home, it is highly recommended that you begin with the lowest concentration of an acid and only leave it on for a short period of time. Otherwise, you could end up with serious chemical burns and even more pigment changes to the skin.
