Chemical peels have had a bit of a bad reputation, enhanced by
that famous episode of Sex and the City when Samantha looked as though she had
severe burns and sheets of skin falling off her face after having a chemical peel.
The truth is that there are significant benefits to chemical peels and if
performed by experienced therapists, are a great way to improve a number of
skin issues ranging from ageing to pigmentation to acne.
Myth #1 – Chemical peels result in a lot of downtime
Very deep chemical peels (like the one Samantha had) are not
performed any more as there are now laser treatments to help resolve deep skin
issues. There are a variety of other peels now available and their depth and
strength will dictate any downtime, however many chemical peels have no
downtime, particularly if the skin is well prepared with the appropriate
products. Your clinician will advise you on what to expect prior to any
treatment.
Myth #2 – Chemical peels can be done at home
Chemical peels sold over-the-counter or online will not give
the same results as stronger ones performed in-clinic by experienced
professionals who tailor the peel according to your skin condition. Chemical
peels can cause side effects such as hyper or hypo-pigmentation and an
experienced therapist undertakes a thorough consultation prior to advising on a
treatment plan and peel to ensure the best outcome. Many people who purchase
peels online find they spend more money trying to reverse the damage!
Myth #3 – Chemicals are bad for you
Not all chemicals are bad and often people are scared off by
this word. Chemical peels do contain chemicals as do other everyday products
such as paracetamol and hair dye. Actually, the active acids in most chemical
peels are natural. Glycolic acid comes from sugar cane, lactic acid from sour
milk and salicylic acid from wintergreen. These products are safe to use as
long as all risks and possible contraindications are assessed before the
treatment.
Myth #4 – Chemical peels are only used to treat specific
skin issues
Chemical peels can be beneficial for most skin types
including sensitive skin. Chemical peels not only treat problem prone skin, but
they can also be preventative as well. The normal rate of skin cell turnover is
between 21-28 days. Depending on the amount of damage in our skin, this rate
tends to slow down dramatically usually starting in our late 20's. Even receiving
very mild skin peels such as alpha and beta hydroxy acids will help to increase
this cellular turnover to stimulate healthy cell growth while exfoliating dead
cells. Prevention for the skin will only be effective if proper skincare
products are used along with proper sun protection.
Myth #5 – Chemical peels are a once-off solution
Whilst most people will experience visible results after one
chemical peel, often the best outcome will be achieved after a series of peels
or in combination with other treatments. An experienced therapist will be able
to advise you on the best treatment plan based on your skin and expectations.
As always, results will be enhanced with the correct pre-and post- skin care
regime, as advised by your clinician.
