Treatment Options for Painful, Recurring Headaches

Posted on: 14 May 2015

If the sun has robbed your skin of its youthful appearance, you may want to consider visiting a cosmetic dermatologist to find out if a chemical peel might be helpful for you. Chemical peels are professional treatments that are used for many types of issues with the skin, and there are many types available for you to choose from.

What Is a Chemical Peel?

A chemical peel involves placing a solution over your entire face, except for your eyes and mouth. The peel is left in place for a few minutes, or longer, and it is then removed. Afterwards, a dermatologist will rub moisturizer on your skin to soothe it.

Chemical peels are designed to offer rejuvenation of the skin, and they can help:

• Reduce wrinkles and fine lines
• Remove or reduce acne scars
• Tighten the skin
• Brighten the skin
• Eliminate age spots
• Make your skin look younger and healthier

Getting the results you hope for from a chemical peel typically requires going to the doctor more than once. In fact, most chemical peels offer the best results if you get five or more sessions. The sessions should be spaced apart, and your doctor can help you schedule a plan that works for you.

What Types Are There?

There are usually three categories of chemical peels offered at salons and medical clinics, and within these categories there are more options. The categories are:

1. Light – A light chemical peel is perfect for anyone with sensitive skin, and it is also good for people that have never had chemical peels in the past. Most light peels contain alpha hydroxy, which is an ingredient that is mild on skin. After getting a light peel, you are not likely to notice a big difference in your skin, but you could after several sessions.
2. Medium – The next step up is called a medium peel. This type will offer more visible results and may contain trichloroacetic acid. This type of acid is not as gentle as the type used in a mild peel, which means it will work its way deeper into your skin. Because of this, you may notice more visible results once your skin heals.
3. Deep – The final type is called a deep peel, and this type is the strongest available. Deep peels are capable of removing several layers of the skin. This means that they may leave your face sore and swollen, but they will also leave you with great results once your skin heals completely. A common ingredient used in deep peels is carbolic acid.

Starting with a mild peel is the best and safest way to begin using chemical peels to improve the quality of your skin.

Are They Safe?

Chemical peels are completely safe, if you choose the right type for your skin. Before getting one, it's important to discuss your skin type with the doctor that will be performing the procedure to make sure you choose one that will not harm you.

It's also important to realize that your skin might be red and swollen after having a chemical peel. You may be instructed not to wear makeup or use certain types of facial cleansing products on it for a few days, or longer. Because of this, you may need to figure on giving yourself enough time to heal before you have to return to work.

If you would like to learn more about how chemical peels could help you improve your skin, click here for info on or make an appointment with a cosmetic dermatologist in your area. He or she may suggest starting with a mild peel and working your way up.