Chemical peels are a treatment performed to improve the appearance of one’s skin. The procedure involves the use of an acid solution to remove any dead skin from the top layer of your face. They are intended to smooth the look of wrinkles and remove any other scars or growths from your face. They are a beneficial treatment for anyone trying to maintain a youthful appearance and don’t want a facelift. While there are many benefits to discuss, it is also important to know the risks involved.

Benefits of a Chemical Peel

Even though the name may sound scary, the treatment is very good for your skin. A chemical peel is one of the least invasive forms of cosmetic treatments for improving the look of wrinkles. You should consult your dermatologist to decide what will be best for your condition and skin type.

Just some of Chemical Peels’ biggest benefits are:

• Eliminating fine lines and wrinkles
• Producing fast results as well as smoother skin
• Relieving dark spots and sun damage
• Rejuvenating and exfoliating the skin to give a “glowier” and younger looking appearance
• Encouraging collagen growth
• Acting as a beneficial acne treatment

A new alternative to aggressive peels is a series of cool peels formulated by the South Africa Plastic surgeon Dr. Des Fernandes.  Environ peels are different in that the vehicle is not an acid, but a gel or a cream. This creates the concept of a cool peel. Meaning that as the peel is applied, the water evaporates, cooling the skin. They are easy to apply, safe, versatile, and are well tolerated by patients.

The cool peels helps to improve acne, rough skin, fine lines and wrinkles.

The Risks of Chemical Peels

As with any medical procedure, you need to be aware of any risks involved. The procedure is better suited for those with lighter skin tones. If you have a darker complexion you may not have the desired results, depending on what you want to have fixed.

Some patients might see permanent discoloration from the procedure, for example, if you are on birth control there’s a chance the treatment will result in a brownish discoloration. There is also a chance that you could experience scarring after the procedure. And if your wrinkles are severe enough, the chemical peel may not be enough to smooth their appearance.

If you have had a herpes outbreak in the past then a chemical peel might cause you to develop cold sores.

Chemical peels are a treatment for those looking to refine the look of wrinkles and improve the overall texture of their skin. They can also improve the look of age spots and remove cancerous growths. However, they may not be the right option for everyone. Before having the treatment, you should speak with your dermatologist so you know which is the best and if the treatment as a whole is right for you.