Everything You Need to Know About a Chemical Peel

Have you ever just wanted to erase skin imperfections like lines, wrinkles, scars, acne, and hyperpigmentation? Well, a chemical peel can do just that. The procedure involves applying a combination of chemicals to the skin to encourage the outer layers of skin to peel away damage and reveal more youthful, smooth skin beneath. 

Chemical peels vary in their intensity, effects, and recovery time. Here’s what we at Pure Touch Skin Center want you to know when considering whether a chemical peel is the right procedure for your cosmetic goals.

Why should I consider a chemical peel?

Chemical peels , like the Rejuvenize Peel by SkinMedica® offered at Pure Touch Skin Center, can revolutionize the look and health of your skin. Typically applied to the face, neck, or hands, a chemical peel effectively:

• Reduces the appearance of lines and wrinkles, especially in areas like under the eyes and around the mouth
• Fades the look of mild scars
• Treats certain types of acne
• Improves your skin’s look and feel
• Erases age spots, freckles, and melasma
• Treats sun damaged skin

How effective a chemical peel is depends on the severity of your particular skin concern and the intensity of the peel you choose.

What intensities are available?

Chemical peels come in superficial, or lunchtime, versions as well as medium and deep intensities. The type that’s best for you depends on the results you want, how much time you’re willing to commit to recovery, and your skin’s health. 

Superficial peels

These peels are also called lunchtime peels because the side effects are mild enough for you to return to work right after your procedure. These peels use a combination of alpha-hydroxy acids to help you look rejuvenated, but the results are subtle and aren’t effective on scarring or deeper wrinkles. 

You may experience some mild flaking or redness right after the peel and for a few days afterward, but you don’t need to take any official downtime. 

Medium peels

If you have some deeper wrinkles caused by time in the sun or age, acne scars, or noticeable age spots, a medium peel is a good choice. Usually these peels contain compounds like trichloroacetic acid  (TCA) and may include beta hydroxy or alpha hydroxy acid, too. You may need 10-14 days to fully recover from a medium peel. The Rejuvenize Peel is a medium peel. 

Deep peels 

Deep peels, as the name suggests, the most intense chemical peel and appropriate for deep wrinkles or scars. Because they strip away several layers of skin, their effects are significant, but you should only get one in a lifetime. 

Deep peels require 14-21 days of recovery. During some of this time you may need to wear bandages and diligently soak your skin before applying heavy-duty ointments and moisturizers. 

Which peel is right for me?

It’s hard to say which peel you should choose without a thorough evaluation by a trained skincare expert, like those at Pure Touch Skin Center. We can help you understand the results you’ll get with each type of peel and the possible risks associated.

Candidates for chemical peels should have skin that’s free of an active acne breakout or other irritation or inflammation. If you have sensitive skin, especially skin that scars easily, you aren’t a good candidate. 

If you want to explore the Rejuvenize Peel or other chemical peel options, call Pure Touch Skin Center today for an appointment, or use the online tool to schedule your consultation.