Cutting-Edge Skin Care: Learn About the Benefits of Chemical Peels

Is your skin dull, giving you a tired, pasty look? You can turn back the clock on your aging skin with a chemical peel, which can reduce wrinkles, fine lines, discolored areas, and other signs of aging.

The skin professionals at Dermatology Associates of Central New Jersey are experts at choosing and applying the right chemical peel for you. Learn about the many benefits of chemical peels.

What is a chemical peel?

A chemical peel is a rejuvenating procedure that uses a solution that causes the outer layer of your skin to slough off, revealing the younger skin below. That skin is firmer, smoother, and clearer than the peeled layer.

Many types and strengths of chemical peels exist, from mild to deep. Generally, chemical peels treat these skin problems:

• Acne
• Scarring
• Dark spots
• Fine lines
• Wrinkles
• Dullness
• Sun damage 

The new skin revealed by a chemical peel typically shows fewer or reduced signs of troublesome skin conditions. Aside from these beautiful benefits, a chemical peel is a quick procedure, and you can combine a peel with other cosmetic treatments to achieve your desired look.

What you should know before a peel

Chemical peels don’t mess around. The stronger the chemical, the deeper the peel. That’s why, unlike some other skin rejuvenation procedures, you should prepare for your procedure. Here’s how: 

• Avoid taking blood clotting or anti-inflammatory medications for 10 days before your peel
• Avoid medications like Renova®️, Retin-A®️, and glycolic acid before your peel 
• Ask a friend or family member to drive you home afterward

Remember to ask lots of questions about the procedure beforehand. Our team carefully explains what you need to know about the procedure, your recovery, and the results you can expect.

What happens during your chemical peel

Typically, a chemical peel takes a short time to perform, just long enough to clean your skin and apply the solution. During the treatment, most people feel only a mild burning or tingling sensation that lasts no more than 10 minutes. We use cooling compresses, fans, and other methods to make sure you’re comfortable during the procedure.

Depending on the chemical peel you choose, your old skin completely peels away in a week or two or, perhaps, as long as two months. Your face may be a little red or swollen during that time. 

During peeling, let skin flake away unaided. Don’t pull off peeling, which can hurt healing and produce uneven results.

It’s a good idea to wait at least two weeks between light peels and three to nine months for medium peels. Deep chemical peels are usually not repeated.

What you should do after the peel

To reap the most benefits from your chemical peel, always wear sunscreen when you go outside, even for a few minutes. Wearing sunscreen is a good idea even if you haven’t had a peel. Choosing a chemical peel is an important decision. If you think you can benefit from a chemical peel, contact Dermatology Associates of Central New Jersey by calling 732-201-6609, or using our online booking tool.