Is a Chemical Peel Right For My Skin Type?

Dreaming of the fresh, smooth, supple skin of your youth? With a chemical peel, the skin of your early years is within reach again. Before jumping into the fountain of youth though, there are considerations to think about before deciding a chemical peel is right for you. Is a chemical peel right for my skin type?

A chemical peel is a cosmetic treatment to remove the top layer(s) of skin, revealing healthy, glowing skin underneath. A chemical solution is applied to your skin for a brief period of time before being removed. Over the next few days, your outer skin layer(s) will peel off. By removing the outer layers of dead skin cells, cellular turnover goes into overdrive to promote the growth of new, healthy skin cells.

There are several different types of chemical peels; each works to treat different skin ailments. Some improve the texture of your skin, some excel in evening skin tone and others can even diminish fine lines and wrinkles.

• Light peels remove the outer layer of skin. Light peels restore skin’s glow, remove sun damage and can improve the appearance of acne.
• Medium peels remove the top and upper middle layer of skin. Medium peels are best suited for those who wish to treat wrinkles, sun spots or discoloration.
• Deep peels are a significant medical treatment, reserved only for the removal of precancerous cells or deep scarring.

Your ideal chemical peel will depend on the type of skin you have, the amount of pigment in your skin and your skin’s sensitivity.

• For oily skin, light or medium peels can reduce oiliness and improve overall skin appearance. Because oily skin is slower to show signs of aging, deeper treatments are not necessary.
• Acne-prone skin is well-suited to medium peels. Medium peels work deeper in the skin, which means great cellular turnover. The more turnover, the more comedogenic buildup that is removed.
• Those with dry or sensitive skin should try light peels before pursuing anything deeper. Light peels cause the least amount of irritation, and may be all that your skin can handle.
• Sun-damaged skin responds well to medium peels that reduce the appearance of damage while restoring smoother texture.

Another consideration is the amount of pigment in your skin. Darker skin tone does not respond as well to chemical peels, and can even leave patients with uneven skin tone.

To determine if a chemical peel is right for you, and which one will best meet your skincare goals, it’s important to consult with a skincare professional. If you’re in the greater Washington D.C. area, Dr. Kevin I. Perman will evaluate your skin, goals and medical history to recommend the chemical peel that’s most appropriate for you. Call (301) 571-0000 to schedule your consultation today.