Chemical Peels and Their Bad Rap
Let us inform you of facts about chemical peels and break down some of the commonly heard myths. Everyone has different experiences with chemical peels, and every aesthetician and the medical provider does not have top experience and knowledge. It is important to do your research on who is treating you and what exactly you are getting done, so ask questions! In fact, at PureLee Redefined questions are welcomed! The doctors at PureLee Redefined rely on their years of knowledge and extensive training in the aesthetics field to treat your skin. A personalized plan will be tailored to exactly what you need. It’s okay to be savvy on what services you are getting—it is your face after all and you only have one!
Myths about Chemical Peels
MYTH #1: All Chemical Peels are painful.
This could not be further from the truth. Social media and tv shows typically will portray certain aesthetic services “gone wrong” and will humor you with how bad the results are! It makes sense that the general notion around these experiences are disturbing. Usually, there is some tingling and warmth, but it is very minor and subsides quickly.
MYTH #2: Chemical Peels have a lengthy downtime and I will be hiding my face from everyone.
While some peels will make you want to stay inside for a week or two, others are much more gentle and the peeling is limited to one week or less. The amount of peeling and irritation you will have is dependent upon the depth of the peel. Generally speaking, the deeper the peel, the greater irritation. Peels that do not extend past the papillary dermis such as the VI peel line will appear similar to a common sunburn at worst and the irritation is minimal. Makeup may be applied 24 hours after the peel if desired and physical sunscreen and sun protection should be used.
MYTH #3: My skin is sensitive, so I can’t get a peel.
Sensitivity is an indication that the skin’s barrier (outer protective layer) is not functioning well which also results in dryness, skin weakness, and lack of resilience. In order to reverse this, it is crucial to restore the balance of water, protein, and oil within the epidermis and to increase cell turnover/epidermal renewal. Chemical Peels help by stimulating cell renewal, shedding the older outer layer, and replacing it with new, well-balanced skin.
Facts about Chemical Peels
FACT #1: Chemical Peels address a wide variety of concerns but the type of peel matters.
Our providers prefer the VI Peel collection. These chemical peels are relatively painless, effective, and the results are long-lasting. So, why choose the VI Peel over something else? Firstly, VI Peel treats ALL skin types, ethnicities, ages, and multiple skin conditions. VI Peels can be customized to target specific concerns including, acne, aging, scarring, and discolorations. VI Peels are smartly formulated with a combination of different acids to include Retinoic Acid, Vitamin C, and Salicylic Acid to name a few. Combining the acids allows providers to use a lower dose of the individual acids while improving the results and minimizing side effects.
FACT #2: Chemical Peels are a kind of acid exfoliation.
Simply put, peels are exfoliating your face to correct sun damage, acne, scarring, wrinkles, melasma, uneven tone, discolorations, and textural problems. Pure acids such as TCA (Trichloroacetic Acid) resurface layers of the skin to reveal softer, revived skin. After a chemical peel, you can expect to have smooth radiant skin, which is tighter and more uniform in texture and color. Because chemical peels are not a one size fits all, it is important to discuss with your provider if a peel is right for you, or if you have any contraindications. Some common “no no’s” that indicate you may not be able to get a peel are: use of Accutane in the last year, pregnant/nursing, and open sores or lesions, among others. It is important to note that not everyone feels the same way, oftentimes pictures on social media portray extreme peeling. It is possible for your skin to exfoliate in sheets, flakes, or mild dryness. Just because you may not peel as extreme as someone else, does not mean the peel did not work or was as beneficial. Chemical peels will have your skin refreshed—out with the old, in with the new!
FACT #3: Chemical Peels are not a one and done.
There is no magic wand when it comes to skincare. Like anything, it takes time, consistency, and effort. For example, sun damage that has been in the making for over 20 years, won’t take 20 minutes to reverse. However, with the right skincare and a series of curated peels, it is possible to correct and refine your skin. Typically, anywhere from 2-6 peels are recommended for optimal results depending on the severity of the concern and skin type. Chemical peels are not only to cure severe skin conditions, but they are also a crucial tool in maintaining your skin to stay consistent. Even “good” or “normal” skin needs peels! It is all about correction, maintenance, and prevention.
No matter where you are in your skincare Journey, PureLee Redefined will help you take your skin to the next level. Call 719.452.8541 to book your chemical peel consultation, or book online!
