What is a chemical peel?

A chemical peel is a cosmetic procedure that uses a chemical solution to remove the top layers of skin, revealing smoother, healthier skin underneath. Chemical peels can treat wrinkles, acne, scars, and other skin conditions.


Is it painful?

You may experience some tingling or stinging. But your technician can neutralize it right away to relieve your skin.


Are there side effects?

Because glycolic and salicylic acid peels are usually milder peels, they don’t have too many side effects but they can include: redness, mild tingling sensation, greater sun sensitivity. You may also experience: Stinging or mildly tender skin, dryness, peeling, and flaking, crusting, cold sores if you're prone to them (taking prescriptions before hand may prevent this). Abnormal lightening or darkening of the skin which is usually temporary, chemical peels in general are safe procedures. You'll be more likely to see side effects after a deep peel than a superficial salon peel. Still, even strong glycolic or salicylic acid peels generally won't cause side effects substantial enough to keep you from your daily activities. Some skin types are more likely to develop a temporary or permanent color change in the skin after a chemical peel. Taking birth control pills, subsequent pregnancy, or a family history of brownish discoloration on the face may make that more likely. About 1/3 of people will have heavy flaking, another third will have mild flakiness, and yet another third will have flakiness on a cellular level, which is barely visible to the eye. The more flaking that happens after the chemical peel doesn’t correlate to a better treatment, many people with little to no flaking have some of the best results.


Is chemical peel safe?

At Resurface we preform only mild to medium chemical peels. A mild to medium chemical peel is generally considered safe when performed by a qualified professional, as long as you have appropriate skin type and follow proper pre- and post-care instructions; however, if you are concerned you can consult a dermatologist to determine if a chemical peel is right for you and to discuss potential risks based on your individual skin concerns.


What are the benefits of a chemical peel?

Many skin types can benefit from chemical peels. And, because they are fairly gentle, these treatments can be used by people who aren't good candidates for other types of peels. They also will give your skin a better texture and make large pores look smaller. Salicylic acid peels are particularly helpful for treating acne and blackheads. Glycolic and salicylic acid is a strong comedolytic, which means it helps unclog pores. Glycolic and salicylic peels are also used as anti-aging peels. While they can't erase deep lines and wrinkles, they can soften fine lines and give your complexion a boost. This treatment is especially good at treating sun damage.


When will I see results?

Immediately following a chemical peel, you'll notice your skin feels softer and smoother. Chemical peels can brighten your complexion, reduce pore size and discoloration. Full benefits may take a few weeks and a series is recommended but not necessary depending on skin concerns. About 1/3 of people will have heavy flaking, another third will have mild flakiness, and yet another third will have flakiness on a cellular level, which is barely visible to the eye. The more flaking that happens after the chemical peel doesn’t correlate to a better treatment, many people with little to no flaking have some of the best results


Who is a good candidate for a chemical peel?

Chemical peels are excellent choices for any and all skin types from light to dark. Peels are also ideal options for those suffering from unwanted skin conditions or ailments such as wrinkles, lines, acne, scars, dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and premature skin aging from the sun.


Who is not a good candidate for a chemical peel?

Evidence has shown that salicylic peels aren't right for you if you: Are allergic to topical salicylates, pregnant, have a rash, broken skin, sunburn, or irritation, in the area where the peel will be done or if you currently use isotretinoin. It should also be avoided if you have a history of abnormal skin scarring, a naturally dark complexion or skin tone, a tendency to have extra pigmentation of your scars. Using certain acne treatments within the last year and skin conditions or medications that make the skin more sensitive than normal can also be problematic for salicylic peels.

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How many treatments will I need?

Having just one peel done will give your skin a bright, healthy glow and leave it feeling softer and smoother. To treat skin issues you'll need a series of peels done. This may mean three to ten peels over the course of several weeks to months. But this will vary widely depending on your budget, time commitment, and desired results.


How does controlled skin injury make my skin look better?

A chemical peel uses a chemical solution to remove layers of skin, revealing the more youthful skin underneath. Chemical peels can reduce or improve fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, uneven skin coloring and other skin imperfections. However, the exact results will depend on many factors, including the severity of your skin issues and the type and amount of peels you receive.


Glycolic versus salicylic peels

Glycolic peels……

So, what does a salicylic peel do? Given that it’s very effective in controlling sebum production, salicylic acid peel benefits include:

* Comedolytic properties that help clean out pores from the blemish-causing debris

* Anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties

* Diminishing post-acne redness and swelling from inflammation

* Exfoliating sun-damaged skin

* Decreasing age spots

* Removing the dead skin cells from the skin’s surface

* Removing oil buildup, helping prevent acne from forming in the future

* Reducing skin dullness * Brightening the skin by addressing the above problems

* It is helpful in preventing tumor-causing cell growth, especially with growths caused by sun damage