Does a Chemical Peel Hurt?
Usually, no. Many types of chemical peels treat a broad range of skin conditions and reach different depths within the skin. The deeper the peel, the more uncomfortable some side effects can be, redness, tingling, tightness, peeling, heat or warming sensation, temporary sensitivity, and sun sensitivity. But even with all those very manageable symptoms, deeper peels can still be painless if done correctly. Everyone reacts differently and has different tolerance levels. Not everyone needs a proper deep peel in most cases of breakouts, scarring, texture, wrinkles, and discoloration light to medium peels will remove these concerns without compromising the skin’s health.
Acne Scars Treatment
Chemical Peels improve the appearance of acne scars by using a chemical solution (glycolic acid, salicylic acid, lactic acid, TCA, phenol, Jessners solution, retinol, mandelic acid, etc.) to remove the outer layers of old skin. The new skin that replaces it appears smoother, brighter, and less scarred. Chemical peels have excellent results alone but can be even better and treat a wider variety of concerns in combination with other treatments. For example, for deeper scars, a combination of chemical peels and microneedling plumps the indented skin and produces the smoothest overall appearance. One of my favorite treatment combos that have made such a significant difference in my clients’ skin.
Chemical Peels on Stretch Marks
A chemical peel will only provide minimal improvement to the appearance of stretch marks. Even the deepest peel cannot reach the depths of the skin to remove the appearance of a stretch mark altogether. Stretch marks are a complete tear in the dermis, and removal can be painful and usually require lots of time, commitment, and money to remove, even close to completion. Chemical Peels are not as beneficial for stretch marks as many other unique, effective treatments like laser or deep micro needling. Most chemical peels would only provide some changes in the discoloration of the stretch mark and brighten the appearance, but it wouldn’t change the texture or depth. If stretch marks are your concern, chemical peels might not be your treatment.
Chemical Peels Pregnancy Safe?
No, chemical peels are not safe for pregnant women. There is no record of the fetus being harmed by the mother receiving a chemical peel, but it is not recommended because acids like those used in skincare can cross the placental wall. Since you and your baby share a circulatory system, they will access those chemicals via the bloodstream, which isn’t necessary for the fetus. Some of the mother’s skin treatment plans can be resumed easily after pregnancy. Mom’s pregnancy skin can also be more sensitive, reactive, and ineffective to treatments, so it’s unnecessary during this time and better to avoid it to be the safest possible.
Chemical Peel aftercare & petroleum jelly
There is no best product or moisturizer to use as chemical peel aftercare. The only instructions you should follow are your practitioner’s or esthetician’s specific recommendations. Every chemical peel is different, and you will have a different set of recommendations for each procedure to give you the best results for your skin. Taking strangers’ internet unlicensed or unqualified advice could harm you or your results always check with the person who performed your chemical peel. They know you and your skin the best. Some people recommend petroleum jelly, which can be a fantastic recommendation for dry skin and discomfort but again, every peel is entirely different, and some skin needs to dry out, and some skin needs to be kept moisturized, so it is best to consult with your provider for specific aftercare instructions.
Here at etc skincare, I offer different chemical peels for all different skin types and tones and different depths for various concerns. So, let’s make a custom treatment plan for you! Cruelty-free and vegan always.
