Are Chemical Peels Good for Your Skin?

Chemical peeling, which is the process of peeling off the upper layers of the skin, are chemical solutions used to improve the appearance of skin. The solutions help the skin to peel off and allow for a smoother and healthier looking skin. Chemical peels are normally used on the face to reduce wrinkles. It can also be used on your neck and hands. This procedure helps to reduce the fine lines on your face, wipe away scars, treat acne, minimize age spots, and ultimately improves the look of your skin. Spots, freckles, and blotches due to certain medications, like birth control pills, can also be maintained through chemical peels.

Types of Chemical Peels

There are three different types of chemical peels and each one of them is recommended for different skin problems. Light and medium chemical peels are useful when treating wrinkles, acne, and dryness. People with deep wrinkles and scars may have to undergo deep chemical peels that remove the lower layers of the dermis. Chemical peels may be opted for, in combination with other procedures, like laser resurfacing and dermabrasion, to rejuvenate the skin. People with fair skin and light colored hair respond well to this treatment.

Along with the multitude of uses, chemical peels are associated with a number of risks too. Some risks include:

• Reddish skin – The treated part of the skin may turn red in some cases. This reddish color may persist for weeks or months.
• Scars – Chemical peels may lead to scarring. Antibiotics and steroids are often recommended to alleviate this reaction after the treatment.
• Pigmentation – The color of the skin might change due to discoloration in pigmentation. Deep peels may lead to less pigmentation and can result in light colored skin in the treated area. More pigments may be produced and deposited in the treated part of the skin in mild peels. Changes in the color of the skin may remain forever, and can affect individuals with dark skin.
• Acne – Chemical peeling may result in the development of acne.
• Infection – This technique increases the risk of certain infections, like herpes. Bacterial and fungal infections may be a result from the chemical peeling of skin.
• Organ damage – Chemicals used in this procedure may be harmful to organs, like the heart, kidney, and liver.

Chemical peels are not suggested for:

• People who are taking acne medication
• Those who have a dark skin
• People who have freckles
• Those who have warts on their face
• Pregnant women and women who are breastfeeding.