What You Need To Know Before Getting a Chemical Peel
Over the past few weeks, I have gotten many requests and questions about chemical peels. This is likely due to the fall through spring period being known as the "chemical peel season." Many women think they can run in and get a chemical peel to eliminate their skin problems. This is far from the truth! Most of the women I talked with were not good candidates for chemical peels because they ignored their skincare, and their skin showed visible signs of being unbalanced. In this blog post, I will discuss the basics of chemical peels, the frequency of chemical peels, and why it is important for a good skincare routine before and after the peel.
What Is a Chemical Peel?
A chemical peel is an aesthetic procedure where chemicals are applied to the face to remove dead skin cells to improve appearance. It is a controlled injury to the skin to remove old skin and trigger the body to send newer, healthier skin cells to the surface. Chemical peels can address wrinkles, discoloration, sun damage, acne scars, and many other skin issues. Additionally, dermatologists may use peels to treat precancerous lesions.
The most common peels are glycolic acid, lactic acid, Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA), salicylic acid, and Jessner's solution. These acids vary in strength and depth of removal; some are categorized as superficial peels, while others are classified as medium-depth or deep peels. I wouldn't worry myself with the types of peels or depth, your skin care professional will know which peel is best for your skin type, condition, and goal you want to accomplish.
How Often Should You Receive a Chemical Peel?
Finding a qualified skin care professional who can safely and effectively administer the treatment is important. It’s also important to have realistic expectations; chemical peels are not miracle treatments that eliminate all skin problems in one session. So, be prepared to get at least six treatments. The frequency of the treatments will depend on the type of peel, your skin condition and goals, and the depth of the peel. However, it can be frequent as every two weeks.
A Proper Skin Care Regimen Is a Must Before and After a Chemical Peel
Don't waste your time and money on chemical peels if you do not invest in the correct skin care regimen.
Importance of Skin Care Before A Chemical Peel
I will share a story about a lash client who got a chemical peel at another skin studio. When "Suzy" came in, I immediately noticed she had what appeared to be abrasions around her mouth area. She mentioned she received a chemical peel. She further stated the esthetician did not recommend a regimen to prepare her skin for the peel or to take care of her skin after the peel.
"Suzy" was not a good candidate for that particular peel, and it showed. Every professional peel manufacturer I have trained with highly recommends starting with a lighter peel, working your way up to avoid causing further damage to the skin, and providing proper post-care. As I mentioned earlier, a chemical peel is a controlled injury to the skin. If the skin is not healthy enough, a peel can cause further issues and take much longer to heal.
Importance of A Proper Skin Care Regimen After A Chemical Peel
Using "Suzy's" scenario, getting a chemical peel is a waste of time if she does not have the proper ingredients at the ideal strength to continue working on the skin after the chemical peel. Think of getting a chemical peel like going to the gym once and never returning; or getting a shot of pain meds post-surgical procedure, but not getting the prescription to manage the pain during your healing process. Additionally, you need to continue to put professional strength ingredients in the skin between peels to not only help with healing but also to continue the progress of improving your skin.
I learned this the hard way when trying to get rid of my acne. I got professional peels to address my grade 2 and 3 acne for almost a year, but I was set on still using high-end department-store skin care products. My skin was like a yo-yo! I would get results for seven days, and then my skin would go right to where it was. Finally, I made the connection which is why we don't offer peels or any advanced services at Brow to Toe unless you are on a recommended skin care regimen.
Chemical peels are a controlled injury to the skin and should only be performed by a qualified professional. Peels come in different strengths and depths, so it is important to find a professional who can recommend the best peel for your skin type and condition. A proper skin care regimen before and after a chemical peel is essential for preparing for the peel and taking care of your skin post-peel. Don't waste your time or money on a chemical peel if you don't plan to take care of your skin post-peel.
If you're looking for a way to improve your skin's health, an Advanced Skin Health Consultation of Get to Know Your Skin Facial is the best place to start. Our consultations are in-depth and comprehensive, so you can feel confident that we provide the best care. We'll review your goals and work with you to determine the best skin care regimen and treatment plan for you, whether it's chemical peels, microcurrent facial, dermaplaning facial, oxygen facial, or firming peptide facial.