How Do Chemical Peels Work?
At Eternal Dermatology + Aesthetics in Fulton, MD, we understand just how important regular exfoliation is for the skin, which is why we offer customized chemical peels. Our peels work to address and correct some of the most stubborn skin conditions. A quick and virtually painless treatment can help patients in the Baltimore, MD, area achieve and maintain healthier, younger-looking, and glowing skin.
How Do Chemical Peels Work?
Chemical peels use a combination of skin-safe acids to eliminate one or more of the top layers of the skin. Without regular exfoliation, dead skin cells will cause a dull complexion and can even contribute to acne by clogging the pores. Chemical peels revitalize the skin by eliminating layers of dead or damaged skin cells while stimulating natural collagen and elastin production to promote uniform skin tone and texture.
The Three Types of Chemical Peels
There are three primary types of chemical peels, and each has a different strength. Superficial peels are the lightest peels that require the least amount of downtime and can be scheduled every two to four weeks to brighten the complexion and help minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Medium-depth peels are a little stronger and can be added to a superficial peel to maximize the results.
Medium-depth peels can be combined with superficial peels to address more advanced skin concerns like sun damage and deeper wrinkles. They require minimal downtime and deliver long-lasting results. Deep peels use the strongest combination of acids to address the most advanced skin concerns, including deep wrinkles and sun damage. A consultation is required before treatment; only an experienced dermatologist should administer them due to their strength.
What Do They Treat?
One of the reasons that chemical peels are so effective is that they are so versatile. They can treat a number of the most common skin concerns and help patients achieve their aesthetic goals. Chemical peels can:
- Reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
- Heal active acne and prevent future breakouts
- Reduce the appearance of acne scars
- Reverse sun damage
- Treat hyperpigmentation
- Promote an even skin tone and texture
- Help patients achieve a glowing complexion
What Happens During a Typical Treatment?
At Eternal Dermatology, a typical chemical peel takes approximately 45 minutes. First, we will cleanse the skin of all makeup and oil to prepare the treatment area for the peel. Then, we will apply your customized chemical peel onto your skin with a cotton swab.
The solution will remain on your skin for several minutes to adequately exfoliate the area. Finally, Dr. Rodney will remove the chemical peel and apply quality sunscreen to your skin to protect it from the sun’s harmful UV rays. You’ll be provided with post-care instructions to ensure optimal results.
How Should I Prepare for My Chemical Peel in Baltimore, MD?
Once we confirm that a chemical peel is right for you, you can take some steps to prepare for your treatment to ensure optimal results. Drinking plenty of water to ensure your skin is hydrated before your treatment will help promote hydrated and healthy skin.
Additionally, you should avoid sun exposure before your treatment and any exfoliating at-home products or treatments to avoid skin irritation after your treatment. We can give you complete preparatory instructions at your initial consultation.
What Kind of Downtime Should I Expect?
Downtime after a chemical peel in Baltimore, MD, varies based on the strength of the peel applied during your treatment. Some patients experience minimal redness and flaking for two to four days after the treatment. Flaking is a normal reaction to a chemical peel and is a sign that your skin is responding and cellular turnover is occurring.
It’s important that you avoid picking at the peeling skin and let it shed naturally to avoid scarring and adverse reactions. We will provide complete aftercare instructions about how to care for your skin after your treatment so you can let it heal and enjoy a healthy glow.
Who Are Peels Right For?
Because we offer a range of chemical peels, most patients qualify as treatment candidates. Those with minor skin concerns who want to achieve glowing and healthier-looking skin and correct a dull complexion make good candidates for a light peel. Our medium-depth peels are a good option for those who have undergone light peels and want additional results or need to address more complex skin conditions.
Deeper peels are a good option for patients with advanced and serious skin concerns that require a stronger combination of acids to help them achieve their goals. An initial consultation is the most important step in the chemical peel process because it helps us determine which peel is right for you and how to best address your skin concerns.
Schedule Your Initial Consultation Today
If you live in the Baltimore, MD, area and are looking for a simple way to achieve beautiful skin, a chemical peel is the perfect solution. The right peel can help eliminate imperfections, uncover your natural glow, and even make your at-home products work better. Contact us today at Eternal Dermatology + Aesthetics in Fulton, MD, to schedule your initial consultation so we can design a treatment plan with the right chemical peel to help you achieve glowing, radiant skin.