Choosing the wrong chemical peel for your skin type and goals can do more harm than good. A formula that’s too mild for you might not work, while a solution that’s too harsh can have disastrous results.
The good news is that there are several types of chemical peels to choose from depending on your skin type and condition. It’s just a matter of choosing the right one and working with a skilled esthetician to get the best results.
At Ashburn Laser and Skincare MedSpa, our medical director, Dr. Nasrin Ejtemaee, and our team of master estheticians offer chemical peels and aesthetic services at our office in Ashburn, Virginia.
Is a chemical peel right for you?
Chemical peels have a number of benefits for all skin types, from smoothing fine lines and wrinkles to targeting problematic acne. You can get a chemical peel if you have specific skin problems like sun damage or aging, or if you just want smoother and younger looking skin.
Our master estheticians evaluate your skin and recommend the best aesthetic treatment for your skincare needs and goals.
You should avoid chemical peels under certain circumstances such as if you:
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Have skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis
- Have poor wound-healing
- Are taking certain medications
You should plan for some downtime for your skin to heal after your treatment, so it’s best to avoid getting a chemical peel right before a major event like a job interview or a wedding.
The best chemical peels for your skin type
Chemical peels work by removing the surface layer of your skin to trigger the production of collagen and new skin cells.
Some peels penetrate deeper depending on the type of acids used, so it’s important to go to a licensed and experienced esthetician, especially if you have sensitive or damaged skin.
The most common types of chemical peels include:
- Alpha hydroxy acid (AHA)
- Glycolic acid
- Trichloroacetic acid (TCA)
Alpha hydroxy acid chemical peels are ideal for people with sensitive skin because they only penetrate the top layer and are generally less abrasive with a shorter recovery period and less redness than stronger peels.
Glycolic acid peels are stronger than AHA and penetrate deeper to the middle layer of skin and are typically used to treat acne and acne scars, hyperpigmentation, stretch marks, dark spots, and aging. Stronger peels can cause redness, swelling, stinging or burning, and possible irritation.
Trichloroacetic acid is a deep chemical peel that penetrates into the middle layer of your skin for deep exfoliation and to replace dead skin cells with the growth of fresh new cells.
You deserve beautiful, healthy skin at every age. For more information about choosing the right chemical peel or other aesthetic treatments, contact us today to schedule an appointment, or request one through our online portal.
