Are Chemical Peels Safe

You only get the skin you were born with, so taking care of it throughout your life is essential for a flawless complexion. Skin care products and SPF can help, but sometimes you need a more aggressive option for harder-to-treat conditions.

Chemical peels are a popular option that celebrities and others utilize to eliminate old, damaged skin and reveal a healthier glow. However, how do you know if a chemical peel is safe for your skin?

The Dermatology Center of Worcester team evaluates your skin to determine the effectiveness and safety of a chemical peel. Dr. Camille I. Roberts is an experienced dermatologist certified to perform invasive skin procedures such as chemical peels.

What are chemical peels?

Chemical peels are a type of skin treatment that eliminates specific layers of skin to reveal the healthy, glowing skin underneath. They're an excellent option if you're looking to get rid of any of the following skin conditions:

• Fine lines
• Age or sun spots
• Certain types of acne
• Scarring
• Rough skin
• Dull complexion
• Uneven skin tone

We use different forms of chemical peels depending on the severity of the problem and the results you're looking for. At our practice, Dr. Roberts offers the following types of peels:

Light peel

A light chemical peel, known as a "lunchtime" peel, is the mildest procedure. It's also the easiest on your skin because it only targets the outermost skin layer. To see optimal results, you may have several light peels.

Medium peel

A medium peel addresses the outermost layer of skin and the upper portion of the middle layer. Recovering from a medium peel takes longer, but the results are noticeable after one treatment. You can have repeat peels if necessary, but only after a specific amount of time passes.

Deep peel

A deep chemical peel is the harshest procedure but yields the best results. It requires significant downtime and several weeks of recovery. A deep peel has the most potential for complications; you can only have one done on your skin.

The type of peel you need depends on your skin's health, the results you hope to achieve, and your ability to handle the aftercare and downtime necessary for your skin's safety.

Safety of chemical peels on the skin

Chemical peels are a safe skin care option if you go to someone with experience doing the procedure. Dr. Roberts is a board-certified dermatologist with detailed knowledge about skin, how it heals, and how a chemical peel affects the body.

If you go to a dermatologist, the likelihood of complications from a chemical peel is rare compared to going to someone with less knowledge or experience. However, some people shouldn't have chemical peels due to a high risk of complications, and they include those who have:

• Darker skin tones
• Hyperpigmentation on scars
• Abnormal skin scarring
• History of sensitive skin
• Are unable to avoid the sun after treatment

Dr. Roberts thoroughly evaluates your skin to determine the effectiveness and safety of a chemical peel. She can proceed if she decides it's an excellent option for your skin care needs.

You should follow instructions after your peel to ensure your skin heals correctly and you don't have complications. Post-peel instructions include:

• Don't wear makeup until we say it's okay
• Apply sunscreen after the designated healing time
• Apply moisturizer as directed
• Stay out of the sun or tanning beds
• Perform daily soaks as instructed
• Take any medication we prescribe as directed

Stay out of direct sunlight even after your skin heals for the best results. It's also essential to apply sunscreen daily to keep your results looking new and fresh. 

Preparing for your peel

Preparing for a chemical peel is one of the steps that helps you avoid complications after the appointment. Dr. Roberts tells you specific instructions to ensure the safety of your skin and for optimal results.

Although there's not a lot of prep work on your part, you must do the following to ensure a good outcome from your peel:

• Tell us about any open sores or infections before the peel
• Don't tan or lay in the sun for two weeks before the appointment
• Follow our skin care regimen to prep your skin
• Avoid retinoid treatments for one or two weeks of pretreatment
• Take antibiotics or antivirals as we prescribe them before the peel

Following the above measures is essential for your safety and the procedure's outcome. Optimal healing happens when you're in good health, and your body can concentrate on healing the skin after the peel.

Call The Dermatology Center of Worcester today at 508-452-2702 to schedule an appointment for a chemical peel or request a consultation on the website.