Right off top, we’ll be honest—chemical peels aren’t for the faint of heart. However, they are some of the most innovative and controversial skincare procedures of this era, so it’s understandable if this infamous treatment has you a little curious. As your girlfriends in skincare and skin health, The Only Facial is happy to answer chemical peel FAQs (frequently asked questions), so that you can make the best decision for yourself.
Everyone and their skin is unique—that being said, a chemical peel can either be a gift from God to some, or a nightmare from you-know-where to others. Don’t worry—we’ll tell you everything you need to know before you schedule your spa appointment for a chemical peel, because once you begin the treatment, there’s no turning back. We say this not to frighten you, nor to make you apprehensive, but to empower you with the accurate information you need beforehand so you can be confident in your decision. Of course, if it’s right for you and you decide to go the chemical peel route, you’ll be ready to take on the world after its beautifully stunning results.
Chemical Peel FAQs
To make this as clear as possible, we’ll start with basic, common questions. Then, we’ll give you the correct answers, debunking concerning myths, and putting your mind at ease.
Question #1: What Exactly Is a Chemical Peel?
A chemical peel is an acidic solution applied to the skin to remove the outermost layer, or the epidermis—yes, the main aspect of this treatment is the removal of the top surface of the skin to treat wrinkles, acne, discoloration or hyperpigmentation, and scars. For this reason, chemical peels are often medically described as skin-resurfacing treatments.
Once the process is complete and the old layer of your skin is finished peeling off, the new layer of skin that’s grown back is softer and clearer; it’s essentially a whole new layer of skin, free of any irritants and debris, and with significantly minimized imperfections.
Question #2: What Products Are Used for Chemical Peels?
Various acidic solutions with different active ingredients can be used, depending on the type of chemical peel you receive. It’s important to book a consultation beforehand. This allows your skincare professional to perform a comprehensive analysis of your skin, as its current condition is indicative of the safest and most effective chemical peel procedure for you:
Light Chemical Peel
Also known as a Superficial chemical peel, this is the lightest level that removes the top layer (epidermis) of your skin. For light chemical peels, Alpha Hydroxy Acids, or AHAs, are the primary active ingredients included in these solutions. These glycolic, lactic, and citric acids are water-soluble, derived from fruits and sugars. Light or superficial chemical peels are applied to treat common skin issues, like fine wrinkles, minor acne, dryness, and mild hyperpigmentation. Since they’re the least intense kind, some may choose to schedule light chemical peels every two to five weeks.
Medium Chemical Peel
A medium chemical peel goes a little deeper beneath the surface, not only removing the top layer of your epidermis, but also the upper part of your dermis (the middle layer of your skin’s barrier). This mid-level chemical peel treats more defined wrinkles, stubborn acne scars, and uneven skin tones.
Oil-soluble solutions that contain Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA), are required for medium chemical peels. Its exfoliating properties penetrate pores, clear out set-in dirt, and eradicate dead skin cells. Trichloroacetic acids (TCAs) may also be used for light or medium chemical peels to eliminate severe wrinkles, sun damage, and dark acne scars. Depending on how serious the skin issues are, you may have to repeat a medium chemical peel once or twice.
Deep Chemical Peel
The most intense of all is a deep chemical peel, which uses phenol, the strongest, most aggressive active ingredient. For this reason, it’s only recommended for those with acute concerns, including widespread wrinkles, extensive sun damage, significant hyperpigmentation, and so on. Actually, deep chemical peels are so strong they can also be used as an initial resort to remove precancerous growths. This deepest level of a chemical peel needs only to be completed once to get its full effect.
Question #3: What’s the Expected Downtime After Chemical Peel Treatments?
Your chemical peel treatment downtime depends on what kind you get. For example, light chemical peel treatments are an easy-going, in-and-out experience, and typically require no downtime. Light treatments are fast, too—you could get one done on your lunch break, as it usually takes about thirty minutes to complete.
Medium chemical peels are different, as they require a maximum of about two weeks, (seven to fourteen days) to heal. Skin begins to crust over and peel off, leaving normal and temporary but apparent dark marks and large blotches. After the peeling is complete and the dark marks clear, redness may last for months.
Unfortunately, deep chemical peels take the longest to heal and have the most uncomfortable aftereffects, including pain, redness, and severe swelling that often causes the eyes to shut, temporarily. Thankfully, painkillers or face numbing cream will be administered, and prescribed later to alleviate pain and discomfort. Still, plan for a minimum of two weeks’ downtime.
Question #4: How Do I Prepare for a Chemical Peel Treatment?
Proper chemical peel treatment preparation is key to a smooth experience. To prevent any complications and discomfort during the procedure and to avoid additional difficulties during the healing process, forego certain cosmetic treatments, such as facial masks and scrubs at least a week before your peel procedure. Also, skip hair straightening or dying treatments, and refrain from shaving hair at least 24 hours before your treatment.
It’s also best to limit your sun exposure in the days leading up to your chemical peel, to prevent uneven coloration in treated areas. Lastly, it’s best to schedule a ride home after medium or deep chemical peels, especially. Moments after the strongest levels of chemical peels are complete, you won’t want to drive home while swelling or discomfort ensues.
Question #5: Is There Anyone Who Should Not Get Chemical Peels?
As we said earlier, chemical peels are not for everyone. These treatments are not recommended for the following people:
- Those who are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Those who have taken the oral acne medication isotretinoin (Myorisan, Claravis, or others) in the past six months
- Those who have frequent or severe breakouts of cold sores
- Those who have exposed scar tissue or keloids
As always, if you’re unsure, it’s great to get an expert opinion before finalizing your decision to get a chemical peel.
Don’t Rush into a Decision—Carefully Consider All Factors First
The thing is, chemical peels aren’t going anywhere, so there’s no need to “hurry up” and decide whether you’ll get one or not. Instead, do all your research, and schedule a facial in the meantime to give your skin the care it needs. You can never go wrong with booking an appointment at any of our beautiful, conveniently located spas. Our educated skincare professionals at The Only Facial will provide the guidance and expertise you need.