Is a Chemical Peel Safe for Sensitive Skin?
When it comes to the most common wrinkle reducing treatments, the chemical peel is among the top requested skincare services. It’s excellent for reducing wrinkles and fine lines, fading pigmented spots or scarring, brightening skin, giving it a youthful glow, and minimizing acne scars. But here’s how to determine whether a chemical peel facial treatment is the best option for your sensitive skin.
What to Know About Chemical Peels
What Exactly Is a Chemical Peel?
Chemical peels are popular for their speedy treatment time, minimal downtime, and effective results. By applying a specially formulated chemical solution, they can remove the top layer of dead skin cells, acting as a chemical exfoliant. Further, chemical peels stimulate the production of collagen and rejuvenation of new skin cells, which can help contribute to skin’s firmness, elasticity, and overall youthful appearance.
Patients who want to decrease signs of aging like wrinkles and fine lines, or those who are actively struggling with acne or acne scarring, might be on a recommended treatment plan to receive chemical peels at two- to eight-week intervals. But some people simply want a chemical exfoliant that will leave their skin bright and glowing, and they may opt to receive a chemical peel once every few months or twice a year.
Are Chemical Peels Safe?
Many patients with easily irritated skin often ask the same question: is a chemical peel safe for my sensitive skin? First thing’s first: chemical peels use FDA-approved solutions made of ingredients that have been proven to be safe and effective for multiple types of skin. That said, these ingredients are chemical agents, so it’s good to know what’s in them and how they could interact with chemicals in other products you might use.
Fortunately, chemical peels also come in multiple depths, so depending on your skin concern, you can select one that’s right for you. Some chemical peels use glycolic acid. These tend to be lighter variations and can help give the skin a smoother appearance while brightening skin tone. Salicylic acid peels, on the other hand, are a bit more intense in depth and typically recommended for oily or acne-prone skin, as they penetrate on a deeper level.
It’s important to note that if you take any retinol products or prescription retinoids, you should stop using them five days before your appointment to avoid any adverse interactions. You should also refrain from exfoliating to avoid any irritation from the chemical peel. Depending on the type and depth of peel you receive, your dermatologist may give you a topical agent, which you would use prior to your appointment.
Contact Louisiana Dermatology Associates
Now that you know more about chemical peels for sensitive skin, are you ready to give one a try? Don’t work with a provider who doesn’t have the experience and knowledge to provide the best treatment appropriately formulated for your skin type. If you’re in Baton Rouge or the surrounding areas, contact Louisiana Dermatology Associates today for an appointment with one of our board-certified specialists to get a consultation.