![\"chemicalpeels-howitworks\"](\"https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20160328235815im_\/http:\/\/www.chemicalpeel.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2015\/07\/chemicalpeels-howitworks.jpg\")
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Don\u2019t let the term \u201cchemical peel\u201d scare you away: This isn\u2019t the same acidic stuff that turned Batman\u2019s Joker into the villain he is today. A chemical peel refers to the general category for a number of chemical treatments used to exfoliate and rejuvenate the skin. In fact, most don\u2019t even peel the skin. \u201cPeels is a misnomer,\u201d says Eric Bernstein, MD, of Ardmore, Pennsylvania. Bernstein. \u201cLighter peels are really treatments,\u201d that help skin look smoother and brighter, decrease pore size and can even help with acne, he explains. An added bonus is that peels will also help your favorite serum and moisturizer penetrate deeper and be more effective.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Stronger peels, such as a Jessner\u2019s and TCA peels, work by triggering your skin\u2019s wound healing response by dissolving the upper layers of the skin. \u201cAs the tissue is removed, a wound is created on the skin which stimulates the body\u2019s healing response, causing new tissue to emerge,\u201d says Bernstein. Just like with superficial peels, the depth and strength of the peel varies based upon the strength of the chemicals used and the length of time the solution is applied.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Banish Acne and Get Your Glow On: Alpha Hydroxy Acid, Salycilic and Beta Hydroxy Peels<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Skip grabbing a salad with the girls and get a lunchtime peel, aka an Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) Peel, instead. It gives you the same results as an extraction session with your favorite facialist without any of the painful squeezing. By dissolving the top layer of skin, pores are instantly unclogged and black heads are erased nearly instantaneously and the glowing results last for up to a month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When getting an AHA (or any type of peel, for that matter) remember that not all peels are created equal. Even though they are considered to be mild peels there are two thing that really matter: the concentration of the peel and if it is neutralized or not. \u201cYou can have a 70 percent peel but if you neutralize it, it\u2019s not going to be so intense,\u201d says Dr. Bernstein.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Wake Up to Smoother, Clearer Skin: Jessner\u2019s Peel<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
To up the ante and erase areas of discoloration and acne scarring, try a Jessner\u2019s Peel, a trio of resorcinol and lactic and salicylic acids. It is normal to have flaking and occasional crusting up to two to four days after the peel and mild redness and swelling may last a week or more. The reward? Smoother, clearer, more even toned skin within seven to 10 days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ciao, Wrinkles!: TCA Peels<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
For a peel that has similar results to a laser, indulge in a TCA peel. \u201cThe TCA peels really work by their acidity and they basically burn away the surface of the skin similar, to the way a superficial laser would,\u201d says Dr. Bernstein. These peels range in concentration from a mild 30 percent to an intense 50 to 70 percent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
These more intense peels require one to two weeks of downtime until crusting heals so don\u2019t plan one the day before a big date or for that matter a beach vacation as you\u2019ll need to be vigilant with staying out of the sun immediately after the treatment. The payoff: Smoother, younger, clearer more vibrant skin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Words of Warning<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Be cautious about getting any type of peel if:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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- You\u2019re on Retin-A or using a retinol product. \u201cPeels are going to have a much stronger effect and may even cause crusting, peeling and scabbing,\u201d says Dr. Bernstein. Discuss with your doctor, nurse practitioner or aesthetician before hand if you\u2019re using one of these products.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- It\u2019s winter and your skin is dry. In the colder months, peels are going to have a much stronger effect and may cause adverse affects if you\u2019re not careful.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- You have a rash. A peel can aggravate the condition.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- You\u2019re a constant hat wearer. Putting on a hat immediately after a peel can cause the peel no to neutralize and you could wind up with a scar.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
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Chemical Peel: How it Works You know the way your skin looks after a steamy romp? All vibrant and glowy? Too bad it only lasts about five minutes. A chemical peel can help you get that same lit from within radiance with a few major differences: it really lasts and comes with none of the agony of obsessing over when … <\/p>\n
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