What is a Chemical Peel?
is a skin resurfacing procedure that uses a chemical solution to improve and smooth texture by removing its damaged outer layers
Depending on the issues you're addressing with the treatment, your esthetician will choose a chemical peel in 1 of 2 depths:
Light chemical peel: A superficial peel removes the outer layer of skin (epidermis). It's used to treat fine wrinkles, acne, uneven skin tone and dryness. You might have a light peel every 2-5 weeks.
Medium chemical peel: Removes skin cells from the epidermis and from portions of the upper part of your middle layer of skin (dermis). It's used to treat wrinkles, acne scars and uneven skin tone. You might need to repeat the procedure to achieve or maintain the desired result.
For more resistant concerns, a deep chemical peel may be required. Deep chemical peels remove skin cells even deeper. Your doctor might recommend one for deeper wrinkles, scars or precancerous growths. One procedure will usually provide the full effect.
Chemical peels can't remove deep scars, wrinkles or tighten sagging skin.
After a light chemical peel, treated skin will be red, dry and mildly irritated — although these effects might be less noticeable with each repeat treatment. Your doctor might apply a protective ointment, such as petroleum jelly, to soothe the skin. You can usually wear makeup the next day if you wish.
Treated areas take about one to seven days to heal after a light chemical peel. New skin might temporarily be lighter or darker than normal.
After a medium chemical peel, treated skin will be red and swollen. You'll feel stinging. Your doctor might apply a protective ointment, such as petroleum jelly, to soothe the area and prevent dryness. After five to seven days, you can use cosmetics to cover any redness.
Use ice packs for comfort. Over-the-counter pain-relieving medication, such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) and naproxen sodium (Aleve, others), may help reduce any discomfort. You'll likely schedule a checkup soon after your treatment so that your doctor can monitor your healing.
As swelling decreases, treated skin will begin to form a crust and might darken or develop brown blotches. Treated areas take about seven to 14 days to heal after a medium chemical peel, but redness might last for months.