In the arena of facial peels, a chemical peel is not as invasive as a surgical procedure, and they are not quite as gentle as the standard facial peel. However, the results achieved by a chemical peel are much more incredible.
A Chemical Peel – What Is It?
A chemical peel is a process by which the skin is resurfaced to provide smooth, blemish-free skin. A chemical is applied to the skin's top layer, allowing that layer to be peeled off. There are several different types of chemicals that are used in a chemical peel and the one used will depend on the sensitivity of the patient's skin. Some of the most commonly used chemicals include glycolic acid, lactic acid, retinoic acid, and salicylic acid.
At first thought, it may seem somewhat scary to have chemicals applied to your face, and then your skin peeled off – but in reality, it's not. Admittedly, there can be a short period of discomfort afterward, but the trade-off is the result of amazing skin.
A common misconception is that chemical peels are limited to the face. As it turns out, chemical peels can also be applied to the chest and the hands as well. There are a variety of benefits associated with a chemical peel, including:
- Reduction in fine lines and wrinkles
- Improvement in the appearance of age spots, discoloration, and scars
- Acne treatment
- Resulting in brighter, younger, smoother-looking skin
- Skin health improved from sun damage
Preparing For A Chemical Peel
If you have decided that a chemical peel is a right choice for you, there are a few steps to keep in mind before the day of your procedure.
The Right Chemical For Your Skin
As has already been touched upon above, chemical peels are not a one size fits all procedure. The proper chemical has to be used according to the patient's skin type. The chemical chosen should also be the appropriate one when considering other factors such as skin color, skin condition, and age.
Skip The Exfoliant
Any peel, whether a chemical peel or not, is a more intense and in-depth form of skin exfoliation. For this reason, it is imperative that you refrain from performing any exfoliating for a week, or even more if directed, before the day of the procedure. Even though you may not purposefully use a product considered a scrub or exfoliant, be mindful of your other skin products that may provide an exfoliating effect. If you were to use any form of exfoliating product before your procedure, it might result in causing damage to your skin.
No Anti-Aging or Anti-Acne Meds
These types of products, if used close to the date of your procedure, can significantly impact your skin along with how it tolerates the peel and your end results. Must stop using a minimum 7 days prior. One of our highly trained Spa Coordinators will go over all of the Peel contraindications with you upon booking your peel appointment.
Hydration Is Key
On the day of your procedure, ensure that your skin has been sufficiently hydrated. Discontinue any type of product that may cause your skin to dry out for at least a few days before your procedure. Attempt to drink as much water as possible in the meantime.
Time Your Procedure
Ensure that your procedure is not performed close to any events of importance. When getting a chemical peel, you must remember that you will need time to recover. If you have an important meeting or a party to go to within a few weeks of having the peel done, wait and have the procedure done after the event.
During The Procedure
When you have the chemical peel done, there are a few sensations that you will experience that are expected and should not be of concern. These include:
- Tingling
- A sense of heat or cold
- Taut or tight feeling to the skin
After The Procedure
There will be noticeable symptoms following your chemical peel that, again, are expected and should not cause concern:
- The peels we provide at Clean Slate Waxing Lounge have little to zero downtime, most of our peels you will experience no visible peeling.
- Please follow all aftercare instructions given by our experienced Licensed Estheticians.
A chemical peel can provide a remarkable difference in the overall appearance of your skin. Once you overcome your initial fear and apprehension, you will wonder why you didn't have the procedure done sooner.
Call us today to schedule your chemical peel treatment at one of our two convenient locations in Austin and Georgetown.
