Because they come with a myriad of benefits, more and more people are opting for facial peels to address their skin ailments. With a little research and some sound advice, you may be booking your first facial peel soon!
Facial peels are fairly straightforward – essentially, they use an acidic solution to exfoliate by removing the top layers of skin and stimulating cell turnover. When new cells are formed, it creates smoother, more even skin.
The reason most people opt for facial peels is that they can produce more effective results than a regular facial. Usually, peels are used to treat acne, even skin tone and reduce fine lines. Different peels are available to treat specific skin issues, and they vary in intensity levels, from mild to deep chemical peels. Depending on the results you are trying to achieve, your skin specialist may recommend multiple treatments.
The best thing you could do before a facial peel is to thoroughly research if it is the best option for you. The different type and level of facial peel addresses different issues, so knowing the problems you want to correct should guide your choice in treatment.
Being aware of your skin type could impact your decision as well. Facial peels are usually recommended for people with fairer skin, and could cause scarring or pigment change on darker skin tones. And if you have other skin issues, like eczema, a peel could irritate the skin further, causing more redness.
To really know for sure if facial peels are the best option, discuss it with your dermatologist or esthetician. They are trained to know the best recommendations for your skin type and should be able to clearly address certain risks with the treatment. Once you have a plan in place, they can put your mind at ease by reviewing what to expect during and after the procedure.
As with any doctor consultation, be open and honest about your lifestyle. Do you spend a lot of time in the sun? Are you on any medication? Do you have a specific event coming up that you want to look your best for? Because the aftermath of facial peels can be intensive, knowing what your life is like outside of their office would give your specialist a better idea of what to recommend for your treatment.
Treating your skin after a facial peel is just as important as the procedure. Be sure to avoid sun exposure, as UV rays can cause irritation and redness to your vulnerable new skin cells.
For a few days following the treatment, you may notice some peeling as your skin continues to shed. Although it may be tempting to help the skin along by peeling it yourself, resist that urge! Premature peeling could traumatize the skin and lead to permanent scarring. Instead, moisturize your skin with high quality lotion and discuss post-treatment options with your dermatologist or esthetician. And don’t worry – your skin will continue to heal itself and exfoliate off in it’s own time.
If you’re looking for more details, you can always reach out to me right here in Petaluma, CA. As an esthetician with my own sensitive skin, I know the importance of using high quality skin care products and can address your skin concerns.