Offered by aesthetic doctors, superficial chemical peels are extremely popular but are they a good treatment option for acne? Before you have your chemical peel done, understand the crucial facts about it.
What Is A Superficial Chemical Peel?
Superficial chemical peels are the most superficial out of all, and they are the most popular as well. They are often called ‘lunchtime peels’ as there is no downtime and individuals can directly return to their daily routine afterwards.
During a superficial chemical peel, the skin is thoroughly exfoliated with an alpha or beta hydroxy acid. When done periodically, these peels can effectively treat mild to moderate acne. These peels are also used to soften fine lines and wrinkles, treat discolouration and even out skin texture. The price of the peel depends on the size of the area being treated.
How Does It Work?
Unlike their name, chemical peels do not actually peel the skin, but they rapidly exfoliate the skin, allowing the dead cells to shed rigorously. By keeping dead cells and excess oil from clogging the hair follicle, pimples and pore blockages can be reduced.
Your skincare practitioner will most likely use glycolic acid peel which is a well-known AHA. It is widely used for light chemical peel treatments, but beta hydroxyl acid (BHA) peels are also gaining popularity. BHAs are close cousins to AHA and work in a similar way. They dissolve excess oil buildup within the pores, and they are usually less irritating than AHA. Salicylic acid is an effective anti-acne ingredient and most commonly used BHA in chemical peels.
Superficial Chemical Peels Are Best With Daily Acne Treatments
There are multiple benefits of superficial chemicals peels, the question is, are they effective in treating acne? While they can reduce breakouts and pore blockages significantly, superficial peels are best used as an add-on to the routine acne treatment. Unless your breakouts are mild, you will also need to use additional acne treatment products to curb acne.
Possible Side Effects
The most common side effects of superficial chemical peels are:
- Burning sensation on the skin during the treatment
- Redness, flaking or peeling of the skin
More severe irritation or redness may occur, but it is rare. Let your aesthetician know whenever you feel uncomfortable during the treatment. If you are using any prescription medicine, you must consult with your doctor to receive the approval for the peel. This way, you will be able to get the most out of this excellent skin treatment.