Aging Skin But Not Ready for Needles? Try a Chemical Peel
Noticing your skin beginning to age is an awful feeling, but knowing there is something you can do about it should give you hope! Botox and fillers are not the only way to combat aging skin; a facial such as a chemical peel can have the same effect for a fraction of the price. The dermatologists at the Dermatology & Mohs Surgery Institute explain what a chemical peel is, how it works, and its benefits.
What to Know About Aging Skin and Chemical Peels
The Cause of Aging Skin
When you’re young, you will get used to tight and taut skin, better known as having good elasticity. This elasticity is caused from collagen. Collagen is naturally produced in our skin and is what provides the elasticity in our face, neck, hands, and other areas. As we age, collagen is produced less and less, resulting in worse elasticity. This is when you will start to notice sagging skin, lines, and wrinkles. Many assume needles are the answer to reverse the aging process, but a chemical peel can help just the same.
What Is a Chemical Peel?
Skipping Botox and dermal fillers and opting for a chemical peel can make your wallet happy and allows you to avoid needles while getting the results you desire. A chemical peel removes the surface layer of skin, resulting in bright, youthful, and smooth skin. It also helps to fade brown spots, even out skin tone, reduce lines and wrinkles, and can help with mild scarring. Chemical peels also help to stimulate collagen production that will help reduce fine lines and wrinkles.
How a Chemical Peel Works
A chemical peel is a painless treatment performed by a dermatologist. Depending on the results you would like to achieve, you can get either a light, medium, or deep chemical peel. A light peel is beneficial for those with mild skin impurities. A medium or deep peel is better for those with severe impurities such as acne scarring, wrinkles, and severe sun damage. Treatment for all three chemical peels is nearly the same, the main difference being the strength of the chemical solution.
Leading up to the treatment, a topical cream will be provided and is to be applied so the peel is more effective. Once the treatment begins, the dermatologist will clean the patient’s skin. Next, they apply a chemical solution that contains glycolic acid or salicylic acid. The solution will be neutralized and removed after 15 to 30 minutes. Lastly, a cool compress will be applied to the face to help soothe it.
After most chemical peels, your face will be red. If you had a medium or deep peel, you may also notice crusting or swelling for up to one week. It is also important to ensure you avoid the sun for one week after treatment, as it can cause a reaction. For the best results, chemical peels should be performed every two months.
Aging skin is inevitable, but knowing your options to help reverse the aging process can give you some hope! If you are ready to try a chemical peel and are in Bloomington, Illinois or the surrounding areas, complete this form and a dermatologist will be in touch.