First introduced in the 1880s, Chemical peels have continued to be the most advanced and popular peels. In the 1950s aggressive croton-phenol based peels were widely used which were successful in treating disfigured acne scars and deep wrinkles. The usage of these peels usually required heavy sedation but in the 1970s, ingredients like TCA were included which were much safer and highly effective. These days these chemical peels can be done within an hour with absolutely no downtime.
Chemical peels work by deeply exfoliating the skin. This type of controlled skin injury peels and flakes off to reveal a smoother, clearer and younger-looking complexion. Chemical peels are usually used to target various skin problems like acne, pigmentation and irregularities in the skin. It helps to achieve clearer skin and refresh its overall appearance. If you have been considering undergoing a chemical peel treatment, but you have sensitive skin, then here is all that you need to know. Following are some acids which are suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and fragile skin.
Lactic Acid
Lactic acid is a type of alpha-hydroxy acid which is derived from dairy. It has multiple skin benefits and one of them is that it is extremely suitable for all types of skin. It can be used in very low concentration over a long period. It can also be used at a higher percentage to make the exfoliation of the skin stronger. Lactic acid helps to eradicate freckles, superficial acne scars and works well to effectively resolve keratosis pilaris which is usually found at the back of the arms.
Azelaic Acid or Azelan Peel
Derived from a compound of barley, wheat and rice, the azelaic acid is well known for its soothing and reparative nature. It has very little to absolutely no side effect. Excellent for treating darker skin which pigments easily, azelaic acid is also known to regulate the sebaceous glands. With anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, it has a great impact on the skin. This acid helps to drastically reduce bumps and swellings which is caused by rosacea and can also reduce the skin mite which causes the rosacea flareups. There is no peeling or flaking when this chemical peel is used. This treatment can be performed before any special event.
Book your appointment
When planning to undergo a chemical peel treatment, make sure you make an informed decision. There are constant developments in this area to give you the most effective peeling treatment. Ensure that the clinic is reputable and is headed by a medical doctor, the reason being that there is an increase in risk or complications when done by an inexperienced provider. Chemical burns (scarring), post-inflammatory hyper (darker skin tones) or hypopigmentation (very pale skin tones), redness for several months, infection and even possible herpes outbreak are just some of the side effects that you could face if you choose an inexperienced provider.