Do You Know the Benefits of a Chemical Peel? 

Chemical peels

Chemical peels can help improve the appearance of your skin in a variety of ways

What are chemical peels good for?

Chemical peels can help with the following issues:

  • Fine wrinkles
  • Acne
  • Scars
  • Uneven skin tone
  • Dryness
  • Sunspots
  • Freckles
  • Age spots
  • Actinic keratoses – spots that could be a precursor to skin cancer

What happens during a chemical peel?

There are three types of chemical peels – superficial (light), medium, and deep – so what happens may vary according to the type of peel you’re getting.

  • Superficial chemical peel – Your doctor will use a soft applicator to apply a chemical solution to the area of your skin that’s being treated. A neutralizing solution or wash will then be used.
  • Medium chemical peel – A different chemical solution is applied to your skin in this type of peel, and cool compresses may be applied. No neutralizing solution is needed.
  • Deep chemical peel – You’ll be given fluids via an IV, and carbolic acid (phenol) will be applied to your skin. Your doctor will perform your treatment in intervals to limit your exposure to carbolic acid.

What do you do after a chemical peel?

After a light or a medium chemical peel, your doctor may apply an ointment to help soothe the treated area. You may also want to use ice packs or an over-the-counter pain reliever if you’ve had a medium chemical peel.

After a deep chemical peel, you’ll be sent home with a watertight dressing over the treated skin. Your doctor may also prescribe pain medication and advise that you sleep in a semi-reclined position to minimize swelling. 

After any type of chemical peel, you’ll need to protect your skin from the sun.

How long do chemical peels last?

Light chemical peels may last for about a month or two, while medium peels may last for 2 to 6 months. A deep peel can last for years.

Is it normal not to peel after a chemical peel?

You may not necessarily see visible peeling after a chemical peel, but that doesn’t mean you won’t see results. Sometimes the particles being shed are so small that you can’t see them.

Are chemical peels safe for dark skin?

Chemical peels are safe for dark skin, but you may be more likely to have an uneven skin tone afterward.

Do dermatologists do chemical peels?

Dermatologists perform chemical peels, and they have advanced education and experience in identifying and treating skincare issues.

What are the different types of chemical peels?

Chemical peels are classified as superficial (light), medium, or deep.

How long does it take for a chemical peel to heal?

Superficial chemical peels take about 1 to 7 days to heal, and medium peels take about 7 to 14 days to heal. Deep chemical peels take about 2 weeks to heal.

What’s in a chemical peel?

Light chemical peels often contain glycolic or salicylic acid, and medium peels use trichloroacetic acid, along with glycolic acid in some cases. Deep chemical peels use carbolic acid (phenol).

To find out more about whether you may be a good candidate for a chemical peel, make an appointment today with Greater Miami Skin & Laser Center in Miami Beach and Hallandale Beach. Our full-service anti-aging, facial rejuvenation, cosmetic laser, and esthetic medical practice is dedicated to improving your skin health and appearance.

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