Ultimate Guide to Chemical Peels: Different Types

First introduced in the 1880s, the chemical peel has become an increasingly popular option. Back in the day, these peels caused extreme skin irritation and reactions. You would require heavy sedation or general anesthesia while undergoing this skin treatment. With time, it has also evolved. Chemical peels are now a safe skin treatment option. They can be easily done during your lunchtime and require little to no downtime. A chemical peel brings about a change by exfoliating the skin at deeper layers. This causes controlled injuries. After the treatment, the skin begins to peel off and leaves behind smooth, clear, and younger-looking skin. It is considered an ideal treatment option for various skin concerns like pigmentation, acne-prone skin, and skin irregularities. Chemical peels can also help you to achieve clear and refreshing skin. Following are some of the popular options.

Glycolic Acid

It is a great option when you have oily and congested skin. Glycolic acid is an exfoliant that is extracted from sugar cane. A fine molecular structure allows it to penetrate the top layers of the sin. The exfoliant properties enable it to effectively clear the pores of hardened oils, cell debris, and trapped bacteria. If you have whiteheads or hyperpigmentation from previous breakouts, the glycolic acid peel is a great option. To enjoy noticeable results, you should undergo the chemical peels with a gap of 2-3 weeks between each treatment. You will begin to see a change in about a month.

Salicylic Acid

Another great acid for clogged and oily skin. It is a beta hydroxy acid that is extracted from the willow tree. The anti-inflammatory properties occur naturally in it. If you have red, inflamed pimples and papules, using salicylic acid can bring about a significant difference. An ideal option for skin that is dehydrated, sensitive, psoriasis, ingrown hairs, and seborrheic dermatitis. If you have aspirin allergies, you should not consider this type of chemical peel.

Kojic Acid

If your skin concerns are aging and pigmentation, this unique by-product of Japenese Sake can do wonders for your skin. Kojic acid can intensely lighten the skin as it supports the overproduction of melanin. The chemical peel also includes Vitamin C as it helps to decrease the chances of free radical production. The skin damage caused by environmental factors can be healed and repaired through the Kojic acid chemical peel.

Mandelic Acid

Extracted from bitter almonds, the mandelic acid includes AHA. The molecular structure of the acid is larger than glycolic acid. Despite that, it is an effective treatment option for fine lines. The chemical peel is known for reducing melasma by 50% in about 4 weeks.

Retinoic Acid

A popular option for combating skincare, retinoic acid contained tretinoin which is Vitamin A. It works to renew the aging cells. This helps to stimulate the growth of collagen and elastin at the deeper skin layers. There is a constant cell turnover, which leads to the normalization of keratin cells. This type of chemical peel also brightens the skin.