The history of using chemical peels to improve skin quality can be traced back as early as ancient Egypt. Since that time, chemical peels have gone through multiple revolutions, but the principles remain the same. By using chemical agents with specific caustic properties to induce controlled damage to the epidermis, the old layer of cells will disintegrate and peel off to allow a layer of regenerated cells to surface. In modern dermatology, chemical peeling is fast becoming one of the most popular choices for people seeking solutions for their skin.
1. A Wide Selection of Peels
One of the more favorable qualities of this technique is the availability of different peels for different treatment purposes. The peels range from light, medium to deep depending of the strengths of the chemical agents used. Within each subcategory, different peels are made from agents with a specific treatment target so that you can select the exact peel that is most effective for your purpose
2. Light Peels for Acne and Acne Scars
Acne problems are as unsightly as they are uncomfortable and can leave permanent blemishes on your face. Light peels, made from alpha-hydroxy acids (AHA) or salicylic acid, are highly effective in removing superficial acne and acne scars by catalyzing the breakdown of the surface layer and stimulating the growth of healthy new cells.
3. Light Peels for Proactive Skin Care
AHA light peels are mostly made from acids derived from nature and have distinct properties in promoting skin cell regeneration, preventing acne breakouts and discoloration from sun damage, and aiding in the formation of new collagen bonds. The mildest forms of these AHA peels can be used as a part of your at home skin care routine to help you get a brighter and more rejuvenated appearance.
4. Reduction of Fine Lines and Wrinkles
Peels of different strengths and concentrations are used for various ranges of lines and wrinkles. Light peels work better for minor superficial lines and for preventative purposes. Medium peels are stronger and are more effective for slightly more noticeable wrinkles, and deep phenol peels are the most penetrating for treatment of the embedded coarse wrinkles.
5. Removal of Age Spots and Discoloration
With the progression of age and especially for people who are regularly exposed to sunlight, age spots can appear increasingly worse on areas of the face, neck and arms. These are the result of your body's production of the brownish pigment, melanin, which defends the skin against UV radiation. Chemical peels have shown great results in removing these age spots and other discolorations.
6. Better Skin Texture, Tone and Brightness
Any type of environmental, physical and psychological stress factor can negatively affect the appearance of skin, making it bumpier, more porous or lackluster. By effectively peeling off the dead layer of cells on the surface, new skin cells are stimulated to grow, restoring the individual's appearance to look smoother, younger and brighter.
7. Cost Effective
The current average price for a clinical chemical peel treatment is ranged between $600 and $900, though light peel treatments can cost as low as around $150. Compared with Fraxel laser or facelifts which are priced into the thousands, chemical peels are definitely more economical.
