I’m sure most of you have heard of facials, but have you heard of facial peels? Well, they’re exactly what they sound like–a chemical solution applied to the skin to gently remove the top layer. I know it may sound scary, but this relatively new and innovative procedure can significantly improve your skin’s overall complexion and health. The benefits of facial peels are worth the time at home or at a spa.
2. The Benefits of Facial Peels
A facial peel, also known as a chemical peel, is a procedure in which a chemical solution is applied to the face to remove the top layer of skin. Your eyes may have opened wide after seeing the word “chemical” in the name of this procedure. Don’t fear, these chemicals are very safe for the skin and are also seen in many other skin care products. Some of the chemical ingredients include salicylic acid, glycolic acid, and lactic acid.
There are three main types of facial peels, including:
Depending on the sensitivity of your skin, you can get any level of those peels done. All of these levels of peels work to resurface and renew your skin. Many people get these facial peels done in order to remove facial imperfections and obtain smoother skin.
So how do these peels work? Well, first the dermatologist will clean and degrease your skin. Next, the chemical treatment will be applied, and, depending on what level you decided on, the treatment will stay on for a few minutes. The dermatologist will then remove the peel, usually leading to red skin peeling off for the next 4-7 days. But don’t be alarmed! That is proof that the treatment is doing its job. Once that week is over, your skin should be looking as youthful as ever.
A facial peel works to remove the top layer of the skin, allowing for new skin to come in and look more youthful and vibrant.
As we all age, our bodies begin to produce less collagen. Collagen is a protein that helps with tissue repair and cellular communication, which keeps young people’s skin tight and smooth.
However, the slight trauma a facial peel causes to your skin causes your body to send signals to repair this wound. As a result, more collagen is formed and your skin becomes tighter and smoother.
As mentioned before, facial peels strip away the outside layer of skin. This chemical solution works to rapidly exfoliate and discard all of the dead skin cells. The exfoliation blocks the dead skin cells from clogging your pores and hair follicles, leading to fewer breakouts.
The American Society for Dermatology Surgery states that the benefits of facial peels include reducing visible lines and wrinkles on one’s face. Removing the top layer of skin allows for the new skin to grow on top of the wrinkles and smooth them out.
Most sun damage really only shows on the top layer of skin. So, having a facial peel done can remove the discolored layer of skin and leave your skin even-toned.
It’s not as easy to go get a facial peel done as you may think. Once you go about finding a reputable plastic surgeon or dermatologist, there are many pre-procedure steps you must go through to be considered. Many places may do pre-health screenings to make sure you don’t have any conditions that this peel may affect. After the initial screening, a physical exam may also take place where they take photos and test the condition of your skin.
Before the procedure actually takes place, the dermatologists and surgeons recommend that you avoid UV exposure and religiously apply 50+ sunscreen to your face to avoid burns before the peel. The whole process from start to beginning takes around 2-6 weeks depending on the place you choose, but usually 4 weeks from the time the appointment is booked to the time your face is healed.
If you are not into a super invasive procedure on your skin, or simply just have sensitive skin, there are other facial peel options for you that don’t involve leaving your home. A lot of skin care companies have begun making at-home chemical peels that aren’t as invasive, but still have many of the same ingredients as regular ones. These peels are often lower in price and can be done in the comfort of your familiar bathroom.
While the professional chemical peels are more concentrated, store bought facial peels can also help with your skin’s complexion. Many of them are known to reduce wrinkles and fine lines, as well as help with acne and dark spots.
Listed below are a few facial peels that have been tested and recommended by surgeons and dermatologists.
This Exuviance peel is fantastic for brighter skin and a clearer complexion. The manufacturers even suggest using some on your chest and the back of your hands for healthier skin in those places as well.
The rejuvenating peel gel does close to what a professional peel does and gives you that youthful complexion everyone wants. Just remember to follow these peels up with a high quality moisturizer after use.
If you have sensitive skin and aren’t so sure a face peel is for you, these exfoliating pads are similar to facial peels in that they gently exfoliate the top layer of skin, avoiding irritation. These pads cater to sensitive skin and even are marketed as a daily use product.
So, if you have been frustrated with how your skin has been looking or acting lately, maybe consider this tested and recommended procedure. You can talk to your dermatologist about their suggestions for you, and whether you may be a better candidate for a professional or at-home facial peel. After all, who doesn’t want their skin looking as smooth and flawless as a baby's? I know that I for sure want to try one of these one day.
Written by Emma Carlson
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