Complements Try a chemical peel to rejuvenate your skin

09/28/16

By Lashelle Kuhlman, licensed aesthetician, reconstructive & cosmetic surgery, Mount Nittany Physician Group

One of the most popular spa treatments offered in our office is a chemical peel. A chemical peel is a skin rejuvenation or skin resurfacing treatment that makes the texture of your skin smoother by removing the top layers of dead skin. Chemical peels require little to no downtime, so this can even be scheduled as a lunchtime procedure!

To determine the best chemical peel option for you, I will meet with you to evaluate your skin and skin care goals. Professional peels offer ample room for customization. I can control the intensity of a peel by altering the number of passes on the skin or customize the protocol with a combination of corrective daily care products to address your particular concerns and goals.

Most of the peels used in our office utilize lactic, glycolic and salicylic acid. By using advanced solutions to combine exfoliating agents and skin-strengthening agents, there is little to no downtime, maximum benefits and minimal discomfort.

During a professional peel, a chemical solution is applied to the skin to remove the outer layers. As dead skin is sloughed away, new skin cells emerge, resulting in a luminous, healthy glow. Peels also help to diminish a host of visible skin imperfections, including fine lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, acne bumps and superficial scarring.

Though they are considered noninvasive procedures, chemical peels require diligent post-procedural care. Patients should wear sunscreen that is SPF 30 or higher and, if possible, avoid the sun altogether in the days following a peel to prevent redness, burning and irritation. After just a few short days, though, your skin will look fresh, smooth and younger.

As with many skin treatments, chemical peels are best left in the hands of a professional. Though at-home versions may contain similar ingredients and comparable benefits, the concentrations are too low to be truly effective. Proper knowledge and experience are needed when applying chemicals to the skin, and an experienced skin care specialist can recommend a peel that targets your specific skin concerns to ensure that you get the best results.