Facial chemical peels have been performed throughout history in ancient Greece, Egypt and Rome to help people have smoother and younger looking skin. Chemical facial peels are quite popular in modern times because the results are almost instant and they can be done in many salons and clinics as outpatient procedures. There are even home facial chemical peels, though they are quite mild.
What are Facial Chemical Peels?
A chemical peel is a procedure where a mild acidic solution is applied to the skin. The chemicals remove the outer layers of skin. It is basically a controlled chemical burn. Once the outer layer has been removed, the newer skin underneath is smoother and younger looking. Facial chemical peels are quite effective at removing wrinkles, blemishes and uneven skin tones.
Benefits of Facial Chemical Peels
Facial chemical peels provide almost instant results, though they are not permanent. The results of deep chemical peels can last much longer, up to several months. The cosmetic benefits of a chemical peel include:
- More youthful skin
- Wrinkle reduction
- Remove sun damaged skin
- Remove blemishes
- Even out skin tone and pigment differences
Associated Risks of Chemical Peels
Facial chemical peels do have certain risks involved. Some of those risks can be quite sever and devastating. To reduce those risks it is very important to follow all after care instructions completely. Chemical peel risks include:
- Stinging
- Burning
- Blanching of the skin
- Crusting or scabbing of the skin
- Scarring of the treated area
- Infection
- Swelling and redness
- Changes in the skin tone of the treated area
- Cold sores
- Flaking and peeling skin
It is very important to remember not to pick at scabs and peeling skin after a facial chemical peel. Scaring will occur. The skin needs to heal naturally to achieve the best results.
Facial chemical peels are suitable for anyone who is unhappy with their skin. This will include those with acne, blemishes, uneven or patchy skin tone, fine lines and wrinkles. Those with fair skin and lighter colored hair tend to achieve the greatest results. Dark skinned individuals also realize results, though not as dramatic.
Chemical peels are not to be confused with microdermabrasion. Microdermabrasion is actually a procedure that does not utilize any chemicals. Instead, the blemishes are sanded of using fine sand particles. The effects of microdermabrasion can be compared to those of mild facial chemical peels.
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