In dermatology, chemical peels are among our most demanded procedures. Individuals with different skin types enjoy the opportunity to choose the ideal peel for their skin type and the obvious results that follow. If you're considering having a chemical peel, it's important to understand how it works and how it benefits the skin.

In a chemical peel, a controlled application of acid to the skin is used to remove certain layers of the epidermis along with any pre-existing defects and begin the process of restoring the damaged layers. Peeling is essentially intentional damage done as a therapy.

When to use acids and what problems can they solve?

The most popular season for peeling is fall. During this period, when the sun is less active, we can undergo more severe procedures without the risk of additional hyperpigmentation.

The regeneration process we initiate with acids gives us the desired cosmetic effect. Depending on the type of acid, its concentration and pH level, we can solve skin problems such as pigmentation, skin defects, post-acne scars and pigmentation, dryness, unevenness and dullness of the skin, wrinkles and loss of elasticity.

How can I find the best chemical peel for my skin type? 

Chemical peels are safe for most skin types because they can be customized to fit any skin type, even sensitive skin. To ensure that a peel is safe for their skin tone, patients with darker skin tones may need to take special precautions before having a peel. This is because darker skin tones can become more hyperpigmented after certain chemical peels.

Let's take a look at the most common acids and how they affect our skin.

• GLYCOLIC ACID: suitable for all skin types except sensitive.
  Lightens hyperpigmentation/sun damage, softens fine lines and wrinkles, exfoliates dead skin, smoothes texture, stimulates collagen production and brightens. 
• LACTIC ACID: is perfect for dry, ultra-dry and sensitive skin. 
  Smoothes out fine lines, wrinkles and rough texture, lightly moisturizes and plumps the skin. 
• MANDELIC ACID: is used for sensitive, oily and acne-prone skin. 
  Diminishes fine lines, wrinkles and acne-induced hyperpigmentation (PIH), treats acne and blackheads, regulates oil production. 
• MALIC ACID: works on all skin types except sensitive.
  Helps retain moisture, dissolves dead skin and milia, treats acne, softens fine lines and wrinkles, smoothes texture. 
• TARTARIC ACID: is excellent for dry skin. 
  Contains antioxidant properties, smoothes fine lines and wrinkles, dissolves dead skin scales. 
• SALIC ACID: is perfect for oily, combination and acne-prone skin. 
  It has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial effects, clears sebum in the pore, treats acne and blackheads, stimulates collagen production. 
• AZELAIC ACID: is also perfect for oily, problematic and acne-prone skin. 
  It helps clear pores of acne-causing bacteria, has anti-inflammatory properties, soothes redness and irritation, lightens blemish marks and scars, minimizes pores and smoothes uneven texture.

How do I apply a chemical peel and is it safe to do it myself? 

During a chemical peel, a sponge is used to apply the solution to your skin. Next, the solution is left on your skin for a certain amount of time, which may vary depending on the severity of the peel and how sensitive your skin is. The solution is then removed from your skin and neutralized with a cooling compress.

Despite the fact that chemical peels are one of the oldest and most popular procedures, there is also a list of contraindications that may prevent your skin from undergoing a peel. 

This is why I always advise my clients to consult a professional before using any product and not to experiment with acids at home. And if you trust my experience, take the opportunity for a free consultation where we can discuss your skin needs and schedule a Medical Grade Peel treatment.