Chemical peels have been around since the mid 19th century and are still used today because of how well they actually work. In recent years chemical peels have gained back their popularity and in 2020 according to a survey by the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), it was the most popular cosmetic procedure performed in the United States.
Chemical peels have a long list of benefits, but they are so popular because one, how affordable they are compared to other aesthetic treatments and two, because they can be customized to each individual. If you are someone looking to improve the overall appearance of your skin and have interest in a series of chemical peels, be sure to ask your aesthetician these questions before receiving treatment.
Am I a candidate for a chemical peel?
One of the incredible benefits of a chemical peel is that they can treat a very wide variety of skin concerns. If you are an individual who has acne or acne scars, fine lines and wrinkles, sun damaged skin, uneven tone and texture, or just want to brighten your skin you are a candidate for a chemical peel. Chemical peels can be started as early as late teens to early twenties but it’s really never too late to start treatment.
What will my skin look like following a chemical peel?
Chemical peels work by using chemical exfoliants that can remove damaged layers of the skin. Depending on the strength of the chemical peels will determine what the skin looks and feels like afterwards. The skin will first look and feel rough because of the dry, flakey skin. Some peels promote more peeling than others. Some patients have little to no peeling at times but are still receiving acid benefits in breaking up and lifting damaged skin. Once the skin is healed, the skin will feel smoother and tighter than before. The skin will slowly improve following each treatment.
What is recovery after a chemical peel like?
As mentioned above there are different strengths of chemical peels, which determine the recovery period. With a mild chemical peel an individual can expect their skin to feel slightly warm and can expect flaky, dry skin for approximately 3-7 days. With more aggressive chemical peels, the skin may look and feel like a bad sunburn and more severe peeling can be expected for at least a week.
What is the aftercare following a chemical peel?
Aftercare following a chemical peel is pretty low maintenance. We recommend that individuals protect their skin from the sun as much as possible. This means avoiding direct sun exposure and applying a good sunscreen with zinc oxide. There are also certain skin care products that should be avoided following a peel such as exfoliants, skin acids, and retinols. that need to be avoided for a short time, but specific aftercare is discussed following treatment.
How often can I get a chemical peel?
A series of chemical peel treatments are always recommended to achieve the best possible results. A series ranges anywhere from 3-6 treatments, spaced at least 4-6 weeks apart.
When chemical peels are done consistently in a series of treatments, the results the individual will see are pretty incredible. We have several master aestheticians at UFP Aesthetics that have hands-on experience with chemical peels and other skin care treatments who can discuss specific concerns and make treatment plans for each unique individual.
For a chemical peel consultation, please contact our offices in Layton, Draper, and South Jordan (coming soon) at (801)776-2220.