Chemical peels are a popular way to rejuvenate the skin. They either reduce or eliminate acne and cause collagen to regenerate, stimulating the growth of healthy skin. Each chemical peel has its properties and side effects determined by its active ingredients. My clinic at Freya’s Lair Medical Spa offers various chemical peels, including glycolic acid, salicylic acid, Jessner’s peel, TCA Peel, and phenol peels. The first step to a chemical peel is a thorough consultation with a specialist in administering chemical peels in Albuquerque to determine which chemical peel is right for you. This article looks at the three different types of chemical peels.
Light Chemical Peels
These are the mildest chemical peels, and they consist of a diluted solution or lotion containing glycolic acid. The results are less noticeable than deeper peels but can be used on all skin types. Light chemical peels have very little recovery time because there is no downtime, and you can resume normal activities immediately. Usually, you will begin to see results after one or two peels. However, if you have acne scarring, a mild chemical peel will not tighten your skin sufficiently to correct the sagging skin.
Medium Chemical Peels
These contain a solution that includes glycolic acid combined with either salicylic acid or Jessner’s solution. It can cause moderate peeling of the skin, so it is also referred to as light-depth chemical peels. Medium depth chemical peels are best for people with moderately sun-damaged skin or those who have some discoloration but minimal acne scarring.
One downside is that medium depth peel recovery time is at least a week, and you may need up to two weeks if your skin is especially sun-damaged. Skincare after the peel includes daily use of sunscreen and moisturizer, and it’s also important not to pick or pull at your skin during recovery time. You can expect to see less wrinkling, reduced pore size, smoother skin, and even skin tone.
Deep Chemical Peels
This chemical peel is the most potent and effective option for deeper peeling and addressing more severe problems such as extensive scarring or pigmentation. Deep chemical peels consist of a stronger concentration of glycolic acid in conjunction with TCA, which penetrates deeper into the skin layers. The good news is that recovery time from a deep chemical peel is much shorter, at just a couple of days.
Unfortunately, this skincare treatment comes with some risks and side effects that may not be for everyone. Swelling is common following a deep chemical peel alongside crusting and blistering. The recovery time for a deep chemical peel in Albuquerque can take up to one month, and it’s essential to avoid the sun during this time. You may also experience changes in skin pigmentation after a deep chemical peel. Certain precautions need to be taken if you are considering this treatment option.
In summary, chemical peels are an excellent way to address numerous skin conditions and can significantly improve the look of your skin. The three types of chemical peels are light, medium, and deep, and they all come with different benefits, so you need to consult with a specialist to decide on the right option.
