Today, there are numerous treatments and procedures available, such as chemical peels, that can help reverse the signs of aging, as well as improve hyperpigmentation and various skin conditions. As a licensed aesthetician in a medical setting, the most common questions and concerns that we hear from patients are usually regarding fine lines. wrinkles and hyperpigmentation.
What Conditions Can be Treated with a Chemical Peel?
Hyperpigmentation is caused by an increase of melanin, the substance in the body that is responsible for color. Hyperpigmentation is usually associated with sun damage. However, the condition can be caused by other various factors, such as hormonal changes, some medications, certain illnesses, and inflammation of the skin. Hormonal fluctuations often occur during pregnancy, while taking oral contraceptives, undergoing hormone therapy, and experiencing certain illnesses.
“Pregnancy mask,” also known as melasma, is a common pigmentation disorder that occurs during pregnancy and while taking oral contraceptives. These grayish-brown patches usually appear on the cheeks, forehead, nose, chin and upper lip. Melasma will usually fade after pregnancy or the discontinuation of oral contraceptives. If it doesn’t, your dermatologist or aesthetician can treat this condition with various chemical peels.
Over the past decade, chemical peels have become increasingly popular, as more and more of us are seeking ways to effectively improve our appearance, whether it is by fighting the aging process, environmental factors, or the effects of illness or injury. Chemical peels are composed of a chemical formula, usually a blend of acids applied to the face that removes the outer damaged layer of skin and leaves a new layer of brighter, smoother and softer skin that is virtually unblemished. Most common, chemical peels are used to soften and minimize fine lines and wrinkles, treat acne, lighten hyperpigmentation and scarring from acne, or reduce other trauma to the skin.
How Does a Chemical Peel Help You?
Depending on the strength a chemical peel, it is a procedure that is performed at a medical office or by an aesthetician at a spa. Medical grade chemical peels will be performed in a facility that is overseen by a physician and can be administered by an aesthetician. Most facial treatment procedures take less than an hour to perform and have minimal discomfort. After application, depending on the strength of the treatment, you will experience light flaking or large sheets of peeling skin for three to five days. Although you have to go through this peeling process, the outcome is worth it and the results are amazing! Depending on the severity of your skin condition, you may require a series of chemical peels. Your aesthetician can help you determine the number of chemical peels you will need to treat your skin condition.
Some of the most popular chemical peels are glycolic, salicylic, mandelic, SkinMedica Vitalize, SkinMedica Rejuvenize (lactic, salicylic, resorcinol and retinol), and TCA (trichloracetic acid). All of which are offered by our aestheticians at Advanced Aesthetics Medial Spa. Most peels are suitable for all skin types and ethnicities and your aesthetician can help you determine the type of peel that is safe your skin type. Because of the powerful blend of ingredients, you will have noticeably radiant, younger looking skin in about a week! Chemical peels can improve the tone, texture, and clarity of your skin and eliminate skin conditions, such as age spots, hyperpigmentation, acne and other skin conditions as well. Chemical peels also stimulate the production of collagen, the main component of connective tissue that provides firmness and strength. As we age, collagen breaks down, causing loss of firmness in the skin. Therefore, treatments such as these are needed to stimulate collagen production.
Most aestheticians are willing to conduct a free skin care analysis to determine the type of peel that is most suitable for your skin type or the condition to be treated. It is important that you consult with your dermatologist or aesthetician before getting a chemical peel, as there are some contraindications of these treatments. After a procedure your skin is sensitive to UVA/UVB rays, so you should avoid sun exposure as much as possible. If you are going to be exposed to the sun it is a must to wear a sunscreen that is an SPF of 30 or greater, a hat, and sunglasses. It is also important to use a topical Vitamin C product with your sunscreen daily.
Usually, 10-14 days after a chemical peel has been administered I recommend a microdermabrasion, which will mechanically exfoliate the flaking excess skin. There is typically minimal downtime with most treatments but the results are worth the minimal downtime and you will be thrilled with the tone and texture of your skin and the radiant, youthful skin you will have after going through the process!
Learn more about chemical peels at WebMD.com.
Find Effective Facial Skincare Today
Call us today at Advanced Aesthetics Medical Spa to schedule an appointment for a chemical peel or for a consultation at 615-383-3807.
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