Cosmetic Surgery Tips

Best Skin Peel For Wrinkles

As we age, we tend to develop wrinkles, discoloration, and a general dullness in our skin. Fortunately, these effects of aging can be reversed fairly easily with a good skin peel. Skin peels remove dead skin cells and help your skin regenerate faster, resulting in plumper, more even-toned skin. Because there are so many skin peel options out there, it can be hard to figure out which one is right for you. To make the process a little easier, we’ve collected our top 4 picks for the best wrinkle-reducing skin peels available in 2019.

We’re going to rank them based on price, quantity of product included (since many of these will have to be used multiple times to achieve the desired results), and overall effectiveness at treating wrinkles. In this guide, we review the aspects of Best Skin Peel For Wrinkles, Is a glycolic peel good for wrinkles, Do skin peels help with wrinkles, and do peels help with wrinkles.

Best Skin Peel For Wrinkles

Chemical Peel Boston MA | Leonard Miller, MD

How would you like to get your skin back to ‘amazing’? You may want to look into a facial peels knows as chemical peels. Solutions are applied to the skin to remove damaged skin cells and bring out the beautiful skin you have waiting underneath.

What is the best chemical peel for hyperpigmentation?

What is the best chemical peel for sagging skin?

Which peel is the strongest chemical peel?

Is an at home chemical peel safe?

You’ve got quite a few answers and options, depending on what your needs are and how sensitive your skin is. For the best effects, it’s important that you research the different types of chemical peels before you make your appointment. Or better yet, consult with an experienced esthetician like Beauty Made Simply. Skin care should not be taken lightly, so made sure you know as much as you can, especially when looking at a chemical solution. To help jumpstart your research, check out this quick guide on the different types of chemical peels and how they help.

1. Glycolic Peel

Out of all the peels available, the glycolic peel penetrates your skin the deepest, so it’s the best one for exfoliation. This is due to glycolic acid’s small molecular structure, which allows it to penetrate deep into the layers of the skin. It’s also good for bringing a healthy glow back to aging skin. Glycolic acid is used to dissolve and allow dead skin cells to slough off. The result is a smoother skin surface with clear pores. A.k.a., beautiful skin. Glycolic peels come in different intensities and can affect your skin differently depending on how strong it is.

2. Lactic Peel 

If your skin is sensitive, some of the peels on this list may irritate it. You may want to look into a light chemical peel, such as a lactic peel. As the name suggests, lactic peels come from milk. It’s not only gentle on easily irritated skin but also moisturizes dry skin.

3. Beta Peel 

Acne can be embarrassing and annoying to deal with. If you have a bunch of problem breakouts, a beta peel will be able to help you. It contains salicylic acid which is great for exfoliation and oil control. Salicylic acid also takes care of the bacteria that cause acne breakouts to give you the relief that you’ve been searching for.

4. Vitalize Peel 

If you’ve never had a chemical peel before, the vitalize peel is a good place to start because there is little peeling involved with it. It uses citric acid, salicylic acid, lactic acid, and retinol to lighten your skin’s pigmentation and improve its overall quality.

5. Pigment Balancing Peel 

Like the vitalize peel, the pigment balancing peel also works with a series of acids to lighten the pigmentation of the skin. It can also get rid of brown spots, but this will take a little more time. You can’t expect them to go away with your first session. You’ll need to go a few times for this to take effect. On top of semi-regular peels, you’ll also need to use sunscreen when you go out or your results will be limited.

6. Retinol Peel

Retinol is a form of vitamin A, which is used in skincare products as it encourages the growth of skin cells once it is applied. Due to its small molecular size, retinol is able to penetrate into the deeper layers of your skin. As this is where your live skin cells are, the retinol that reaches this level encourages your skin cells to grow and renew. A retinol peel can also help unclog your pores and reduce acne outbreaks by allowing the cleansed skin to heal.  A retinol peel is ideal if you want to rejuvenate, hydrate and refresh your complexion. If you have more specific skin concerns including acne or aging signs such as fine lines and wrinkles, then a retinol peel could be the perfect solution for you to reduce symptoms.

7. Mandelic Peel

Mandelic acid is a go-to anti-aging ingredient in the world of skin care. It works to accelerate cell turnover by dissolving the tiny bonds that hold skin cells together, helping to remove dead skin on the surface of the skin that can lead to dull complexions as well as fine lines. It also strengthens collagen, one of the building blocks of the skin’s support network that gives it a youthful firmness.This increased rate of sloughing thins the outermost layer of the skin called the stratum corneum. A thinner stratum corneum reflects light better and makes skin look smoother and more youthful. Mandelic acid and other alpha hydroxy acids generally soften the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and improve skin texture.

8. Jessners Peel

Like all other chemical peels, the Jessner peel is done by brushing an acidic liquid onto the skin to remove the top layers and encourage new, younger looking skin to grow.  The Jessner peel was first formulated over a hundred years ago, and it’s still in use today thanks to its ability to: 

  • reduce dark patches and age spots
  • even out skin tone
  • reduce the appearance of scars
  • smooth fine lines and wrinkles 
  • treat melasma (skin discoloration), hyper-pigmentation, and acne scars

While many chemical peels can cause lasting discoloration on darker skin, a recent small study found that a modified Jessner’s solution safely and effectively reduces melasma and pigment imperfections in darker skin. It has also been shown to be an effective treatment of acne scars even when used as a superficial peel according to a study in the Journal of Clinical Aesthetic Dermatology.

9. Vitamin C Peel

Vitamin C is one of the best-known defenses against free radicals (such as pollution, sun rays, and cigarette smoke) that can cause your skin to lose elasticity and sag. As a result, your skin loses its ability to shed dead skin cells, causing a dull and uneven appearance. Vitamin C works as an antioxidant to neutralize these free radicals, by preventing them from oxidizing on your skin.This peel can also help anyone suffering from acne, as it deeply cleanses pores and provides an anti-bacterial action to prevent them from reappearing. The acid found in Vitamin C also works as a bleaching agent that can help restore imbalanced skin tone and help fade blemishes.

10. Alpha Jewel Peel

This is a summer safe peel with minimal downtime. Perfect for those “on the go” that do not want a lot of downtime. Alpha Jewel Peel Professional System is intended to remove the outermost layers of dead skin with the added bonus of precious gems. This unique element leaves trace amounts of essential minerals that create large levels of antioxidants to help neutralize stressed skin.

Best Chemical Peel For Deep Wrinkles At Home

The road to glowing skin is paved with potent skincare products. From wrinkle-busting retinols to sun spot-banishing vitamin C serums, strategic use of high-performance skincare can keep your complexion clear, dewy, and more youthful-looking year-round. But there’s another secret to beautiful skin that shouldn’t be overlooked: proper exfoliation—not only because it ensures soft, radiant skin, but because it helps all of the other products you apply work better. And one of the most effective methods that you can incorporate into your regimen is an at-home chemical peel.

Less intense than in-office peels, at-home peels help break down the “glue” that keeps complexion-dulling dead skin cells hanging on. “Peels are intended to remove the outermost layer of dead skin cells, giving the face a smoother, more radiant appearance. They work to exfoliate top layers of cells and help clear up clogged pores, breakouts, dull skin, and dry skin,” explains dermatologist Dr. Howard Sobel. “They are also great for minimizing pores and diminishing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.”

To get the most out of an at-home peel without leaving your skin irritated from over-exfoliation, dermatologists recommend incorporating one into your regimen no more than twice a week. If you’re using a retinol product, take a break from it on the nights that you use a peel, and be sure to follow up with a rich moisturizer and, of course, sunscreen. While peels are a good option for most skin types, those with very sensitive skin could experience irritation and should consult a dermatologist before incorporating peels into their routine to determine the best timing and ingredients to use to get the glowing results you crave.

“Home chemical peels have to be necessarily gentle, so they can be used safely and regularly,” says dermatologist Dr. Linda Chung Honet. “I like recommending them as a boosting treatment between professional treatments in the office.”

Home peels come in a variety of formulations, from disposable pads to masks to overnight serums. It is important to bear in mind that both “chemical” and “peel” are slight misnomers—many of the key acids you’ll find in these products are derived from fruit, and you should not actually see any peeling in your skin. If you do, you’ve overdone it. Best practice is to look for options with AHAs such as glycolic, lactic, and citric acids as well as brightening ingredients such as vitamin C and ferulic acid. Below we’ve rounded up some of the home treatments dermatologists recommend to give your skin the clean sweep.Best All-AroundTLC Sukari Babyfacial Mask

Drunk Elephant

With a blend of 25% AHAs (glycolic, tartaric, lactic, and citric acids) as well as 2% BHA (salicylic acid) to work both at the skin’s surface and down inside the pores, this putty-colored peel leaves skin looking and feeling smoother in 20 minutes, without overpowering sensitive complexions.Bargain BuyAHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution

The Ordinary

The high-octane ingredients found in peels mean that many versions also come with steep price tags. Not this bottle, which offers 30% AHAs and 2% BHA for maximum exfoliation on a shoestring budget.ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOWFastest Acting30% Glycolic Acid Peel Concentrate

Sobel Skin Rx

If you’re ready to take on skincare like a pro, look no further than this 30% glycolic acid peel that will clear away dullness-inducing dead skin cells, help unblock pores, and boost your natural radiance in just two minutes.Pro-Level PeelClinical Grade Resurfacing Liquid Peel

Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare

When you’re ready to get serious about smoothing and brightening, this potent two-step peel offers dark spot eliminating power as well as redness-fighting soothers. Step one features lactic and glycolic acid and the pineapple-derived enzyme bromelian and can be customized depending on the amount that you apply. After just two minutes of exfoliation, apply step two which deactivates the peeling action with soothing oatmeal and green tea.ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOWBest for Anti-AgingRapid Reveal Peel

Dermalogica

These individually portioned tubes of high-potency lactic acid and caviar lime help resurface skin and give your natural collagen production a little nudge to make skin look firmer.Best for Acne ScarsRejuvenating Mini Peel Gel

Glytone

With a 10.8 glycolic acid value, this straightforward gel peel (it has just 7 ingredients) is perfect for those who aren’t kidding around with their exfoliation routine. With regular use, it can also help smooth the appearance of uneven texture.Best Natural PeelResurfacing Mask

Tata Harper

Famed for its farm-sourced ingredients, this best-selling mask uses BHA from willow bark and exfoliating pomegranate enzymes to wake up tired-looking skin.

Best for Fine LinesCaviar Lime Acid Peel

Lancer Skincare

Australian caviar lime lends its peeling power to AHA glycolic acid, as well as brightening phytic acid and wrinkle fighting retinol for a do-it-all weekly peel.Best for TravelAlpha Beta Extra Strength Daily Peel

Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare

Travel can be tough on skin, but these convenient packets of pre-soaked peel wipes with glycolic, lactic, and salicylic acids make sure that you can maintain your glow on-the-go.Most Splurge-WorthyGlyco Extreme Peel

Natura Bissé

Washington, D.C.-based dermatologist Dr. Noëlle Sherber recommends this luxe, ultra-effective peel for a home glow. “It has a nice blend of 5 AHAs (glycolic, lactic, malic, tartaric, and citric acids) plus a BHA,” she says. “It also contains an enzyme that is more active at higher temperatures, so a pro tip is to use this on warm skin in the bath or shower for a more intense treatment. It also includes glycerin which is an excellent small molecule hydrator to prevent skin getting dehydrated and flaky.”

Dermatologist RecommendedAlphaRet Exfoliating Peel Pads

SkinBetter Science

Dermatologists love SkinBetter Science AlphaRet Exfoliating Peel Pads due to their unique formulation. “They are a great combination of retinoid with alpha-hydroxy and beta-hydroxy acids,” says Dr. Honet. “They are effective yet gentle enough to use at home 2-3 times a week and are well-suited for nearly every skincare regimen.”Best for AcneMax Complexion Correction Pads

Peter Thomas Roth

Though formulated to tackle acne—chiefly with 2% salicylic acid—these powerful pads are also super effective at whisking away the dryness that can cause fine lines, minimizing pores, and regulating oil production.Best for Brighter Skin1 oz. Gold Profection22 Mask

Ambari Beauty

This super-potent rinse-off treatment mask incorporates a blend of 22% AHAs, plus adaptogenic reishi mushroom and comforting CBD, to polish skin and boost glow in only 10-15 minutes.

Most HydratingMicro Peel Peptide Pads

Dr. Loretta

These anti-aging peel pads from Dr. Loretta incorporate plant peptides in the formulation, so that skin is receiving a hit of hydration and nourishment while also being treated with low pH medical grade 10% glycolic acid.Best Overnight OptionKateCeuticals Resurfacing Overnight Peel

Kate Somerville

Wake up with a visibly brighter complexion after using an overnight treatment, such as this multi-tasker from Kate Somerville, which tackles dark spots, fine lines, wrinkles, and pores with glycolic acid, ceramide-encapsulated retinol, and niacinamide.Best for PoresSkin Perfecting 25% AHA + 2% BHA Exfoliant Peel

Paula’s Choice

In just 10 minutes, a combination of 25% AHAs and 2% BHA do just the trick to visibly brighten skin, refine texture, smooth any fine line and wrinkles, and unclog pores. Also, shoutout to the butterfly pea flower, which calms redness and soothes skin.Easy ApplicationTCA Lactic & Glycolic Face Peel

Stacked Skincare

This multi-tasking, at-home peel has a lightweight, liquid texture that’s packed with five acids—including lactic and glycolic—that gently minimize dullness and dark spots, prevent acne, promote radiance, and soften fine lines. Even better? No rinsing required.

Is a glycolic peel good for wrinkles

Glycolic acid is a skin-care heavyweight, showing up in exfoliating cleansers, toners, and masks. But what kinds of benefits can you get from a professional glycolic acid peel? If you’ve only ever used glycolic acid in your at-home skin-care products, you might be wondering what these popular treatments can do for you.

However, because highly concentrated acids like those used in peels can be irritating, they should be treated with care—and so should the outer layer of your skin. So we spoke to a few experts about what a professional glycolic acid peel entails and how to know if it’s the right treatment for you.

1. What is glycolic acid?

Glycolic acid is a colorless, odorless alpha-hydroxy-acid (AHA) derived from sugarcane. It’s a type of chemical exfoliant that dissolves the bonds between dead skin cells, allowing them to be wiped away easily, revealing smooth, younger skin below.

It’s actually the smallest naturally occurring AHA, Zeljka Kreptic, Ph.D., a lecturer in physical chemistry at the University of Salford, tells SELF. That means it can penetrate the skin more deeply and easily compared to other AHAs you might know, like lactic acid, which is why it is so commonly used.

AHAs like glycolic acid are water soluble, which means they dissolve in water. On the other hand, beta-hydroxy-acids (BHAs), such as salicylic acid, are oil soluble, meaning they dissolve in oil and can penetrate deeper into oily pores, Marisa Garshick M.D., board-certified dermatologist at the Manhattan Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery Center, tells SELF.

But that doesn’t mean AHAs aren’t effective. If used correctly, as in a glycolic acid peel, they can be an easy way to get smoother, glowing skin.

2. Who should try a glycolic acid peel?

Do your skin concerns include managing hyperpigmentation or fending off fine lines and wrinkles? If yes, then a glycolic acid peel might be the treatment for you. Because it’s a powerful exfoliant, it can visibly reduce signs of aging and hyperpigmentation by weakening the connections between the cells in the top layer of the skin, which helps remove the dead skin cells, giving the skin a refreshed look and a glowing complexion.

More specifically, glycolic acid reacts readily with the upper layer of the skin, weakening the binding properties of the lipids that hold the dead skin cells together through a process called desquamation. That allows the outer skin to dissolve, subsequently revealing the underlying skin, Dr. Kreptic says.

These effects can be used to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, sunspots, melasma, and acne scars, Dr. Garshick explains. Regularly exfoliating can also help manage acne because it prevents pores from getting clogged.

When it comes to managing melasma, glycolic acid can be used to suppress the formation of melanin pigment in the skin. It does so by inhibiting the actions of tyrosinase, an enzyme that normally speeds up the complex process by which the pigment melanin is produced by certain types of skin cells. Slowing this process down results in less hyperpigmentation. But don’t expect to see results straight away; it normally takes between four and eight treatments before you see a significant difference.

3. Can you get a glycolic acid peel if you have acne-prone or sensitive skin?

We know that chemical peels can, over time, improve the appearance of some acne scars. But can you get them done if you have active acne? Yes! In fact, there’s some research to show that glycolic acid has antibacterial effects on P. acnes, the bacteria responsible for inflammatory acne.

However, if you have sensitive skin or a condition like psoriasis, rosacea, or eczema, is it essential to speak with a board-certified dermatologist prior to any chemical peels. Glycolic acid tends to be more irritating than other chemical exfoliants, so you may need to choose a different acid or figure out a different treatment option.

It’s also important to avoid doing a peel if you have a sunburn or active skin infection. And if you’re taking any prescription medications for your acne, you should talk about that with your dermatologist before doing a peel, as these can also irritate your skin.

4. Can you get a glycolic acid peel if you’re pregnant?

Lower concentrations (up to about 10%) found in over-the-counter products that you can use at home are fine, Dr. Gershick says. But at higher concentrations, the acid makes its way deeper into the skin and possibly into the bloodstream.

There aren’t a ton of great studies about exactly how much glycolic acid gets into the bloodstream or what effects that might have during pregnancy. But the little research we do have suggests that, actually, the vast majority of the acid is absorbed by the skin—even in peels with high concentrations. Still, Dr. Garshick says these peels should generally be avoided while pregnant, just to be totally sure. You can talk it over with your ob-gyn and your dermatologist to figure out what makes sense in your unique situation.

5. What concentration of glycolic acid should you ask for?

There are three major types of glycolic acid peels, which differ based on both the concentration of the glycolic acid in the product being used and the amount of time that it stays on your skin, Debra Jaliman, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City, tells SELF.

Here’s what to expect with each level of in-office peel:

Light: A light, or “superficial,” peel involves the use of 20% to 30% glycolic acid, which is applied for just a minute or two. This will only peel the surface layer of the skin, which is helpful for mild hyperpigmentation. A light peel doesn’t require any actual downtime, but you should refrain from using skin-care or makeup products for 24 hours after the peel to give your skin time to recuperate.

Medium: At this level, you can expect to receive a 35% to 50% concentration of glycolic acid for two to five minutes. With that application, the acid can penetrate into the papillary dermis (the uppermost layer of the dermis, which sits below the epidermis). Medium-depth peels can be helpful for melasma and hyperpigmentation as well as improving the skin’s overall texture. However, expect about a week of downtime (meaning your skin may be red and sensitive, and you’ll have to refrain from using makeup and certain skin-care products) with a medium-depth peel.

Deep: For deep peels, dermatologists use 55% to 70% glycolic acid, applied for at least three minutes and possibly up to 15 minutes. These peels can penetrate into the reticular dermis (the lower level of the dermis, below the papillary dermis). Deep peels can do everything that medium-depth peels can, as well as even improve the appearance of acne scars. Deep peels also typically require downtime of up to two weeks. This level of peel is usually reserved for treating deeper wrinkles or precancerous growths because it can come with serious side effects, including a risk for infection and scarring.

High or unregulated concentrations of glycolic acid (anything above 70%) would be considered too high even for a peel that only stays on your skin for a few minutes.

However, keep in mind that the exact procedure and time of exposure will vary based on your particular skin goals. And as always, your dermatologist will be able to provide you with all the information you need to decide which depth is right for you.

6. What happens during a glycolic acid peel?

In some cases the process starts before you even get to the office, as your dermatologist might recommended you use a retinoid and/or brightening cream in the days leading up to the peel to speed up the healing process and prevent hyperpigmentation after the procedure, Dr. Garshick says. But you should only do this if your derm tells you to, as in some cases it’s recommended that you actually avoid certain medicated creams before and after the treatment.

During the first stage of the actual treatment, the technician will cleanse the skin. Then the glycolic acid solution can be applied, being careful to protect your eyes and the corners of your nose and mouth. You may feel some mild tingling or stinging during the peel, which is completely normal and indicates that the acid is beginning to work. If you’re having a deep peel, you may actually be given local or regional anesthesia to numb your face while the chemical works.

After the required exposure time has passed, the glycolic acid is neutralized with water or another solution. The neutralizing agent can also be applied earlier if the skin is uniformly red (which would suggest your skin is too sensitive for the treatment) or if frosting (the skin turning white from the exfoliation) occurs, Dr. Garshick says. The end of the treatment is crucial in determining the result of the treatment, as glycolic acid needs to be neutralized to stop the reaction and any unwanted side effects.

Once the acid is off your face, your dermatologist will likely apply a cool compress to soothe your skin.

7. How should you care for your skin after the peel?

As noted above, the healing time can take anywhere between one and 14 days. During that time it’s important to be super gentle with your skin. That means avoiding any additional exfoliation, using only gentle skin-care products (if any), and always using sun protection.

Depending on the depth of your peel, your dermatologist may recommend using an ointment (like petroleum jelly) to keep the skin protected. If your skin is feeling tight or swollen (after a medium or deep peel), you may be able to use a fan or ice packs to help it feel better. You can also use over-the-counter pain medications like ibuprofen.

It’s also important to keep the skin hydrated and avoid steam rooms, saunas, and anything that can dry your skin out quickly. This includes washing your face with water that’s too hot—stick to using lukewarm water on your face, now and always.

8. What kinds of side effects should you expect?

The most common side effects include redness, irritation, scarring, and discoloration, but the potential side effects of a glycolic acid peel depend on the depth of the peel and your skin.

After a light or medium peel, the skin may feel tight and have some mild redness, for instance. And over the course of two to three days after the peel, you might also notice some dryness or shedding of the skin, Dr. Garshick says.

Deeper peels can lead to more severe side effects, including scarring and infections, SELF explained previously.

9. How long will it take to see results?

The general rule is that you’ll see results once your skin has fully healed. That depends on the depth of the peel, the concentration of glycolic acid used, and the amount of time you were exposed to the peel. Overall, it can take up to two weeks for new skin to develop.

But remember that in many cases it will take repeated treatments to see really noticeable results. And unfortunately, any results you see may not be permanent because your skin will continue to age, the AAD explains. And your skin’s personality will stay the same. For instance, if you’re prone to visible sun damage or acne-related hyperpigmentation, you will still be likely to experience those things after the peel.

10. How often should you get peels?

For most people, it’s recommended to do multiple peels to get the best results, usually between three and six treatments. But the amount of treatments that’s right for you depends on both your desired results and your budget. Peels can cost between $80 and $200 each, Dr. Garshick says, and that adds up quickly when you’re doing multiple treatments. It’s also good to remember that peels aren’t usually covered by insurance.

That makes it all the more important to have a thorough conversation with your dermatologist when deciding on a treatment regimen for your unique skin needs. They should also talk you through the recovery time and the possible side effects and complications of the treatment, which can vary from person to person.

And know that once you start the treatment, the course might change. It’s especially important to be mindful of how your skin is feeling after the first peel, which will clue you and your derm in to how well your skin can tolerate the acid and whether it can tolerate more peels. Over-exfoliating the skin can cause irritation and sensitivity, so it’s crucial to make sure you’re approaching the procedure with care.

Do skin peels help with wrinkles

Drop off the dry cleaning, get the oil changed, have your wrinkles erased, pick up the kids up from soccer practice — wait, whose to-do list is this?

Cosmetic procedures don’t all require general anesthesia, a nip, and a tuck. Some minor procedures can ease wrinkles in the doctor’s office in less than an hour, and with little or no recovery time. Today, having cosmetic work done can be a lunch-hour errand.

Botulinum Toxin (Botox)

Botulinum toxin A, sold as Botox, is the purified toxin of the bacteria that causes botulism. Creepy, for sure, but it’s also extremely effective as an anti-wrinkle treatment.

Tiny, over-clenched facial muscles are responsible for crow’s feet, frown lines, and other facial wrinkles. Botulinum toxin is a paralyzing agent, which in tiny doses can relax these uptight muscles for months at a time.

Botox represents the ultimate in cosmetic convenience. Injections of Botox usually take about ten to fifteen minutes in an office setting. The injections cause minimal discomfort for most people, with no recovery time.

The flip side to this almost drive-through efficiency: the results are temporary. Treatments must be repeated every few months.

Chemical Peels

In a chemical peel, a chemical solution is applied to small areas of skin on the face, neck or hands. The chemicals damage the outer layers of skin in a controlled way. After the procedure, the damaged skin becomes red and peels off. Chemical peels can remove age spots, acne scars, and some wrinkles.

As the smoother skin underneath heals and grows, your skin looks younger.

Chemical peels come in a variety of strengths and types. Glycolic acid, trichloroacetic acid, salicyclic acid, lactic acid, or carbonic acids are used, sometimes in combinations. The application can take as little as 15 minutes. There may be mild redness and irritation afterwards, but most people return to normal activities immediately. It’s important to wear sunscreen to protect your vulnerable skin after a chemical peel.

Laser Skin Resurfacing

“Regular” laser skin resurfacing uses a high-powered laser to damage outer layers of the skin with heat. Recovery can take weeks.

Newer “nonablative” lasers penetrate beneath the surface skin. This stimulates collagen production, improving skin’s tone and texture and minimizing fine lines. There is no damage to the outer skin, so there is no recovery time.

Each 15- to 30-minute procedure may cause some mild redness, which goes away quickly. A total of four to six treatments, spaced out over several weeks, provide the best results.

Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion involves a device that “sandblasts” the skin with a spray of abrasive microscopic crystals. Scars from acne or chickenpox, wrinkles, and age spots can be reduced or removed with microdermabrasion.

Several treatments (up to 10 or so) may be needed for good results. Each treatment takes 30 minutes to an hour, repeated over weeks. Microdermabrasion has no side effects and no recovery time for most people.

Full dermabrasion uses a rougher but more effective approach. In dermabrasion, a “skin sander” abrades skin more deeply. Seven to 10 days of recovery time are usually needed for skin to heal after dermabrasion.

do peels help with wrinkles

If you want smooth wrinkle-free skin, you’ll want to consider getting a chemical peel, the latest cosmetic procedure that is sure to give your skin a glowing appearance. Dr Jeffrey Klein and his team at Hutton Klein Dermatology located in San Juan Capistrano, California, work closely with our patients to provide treatments that are right for them. Here’s what they want you to know about mild to medium chemical peels.

The 5 reasons chemical peels are for you

 Here are the top five reasons why a chemical peel may be the best option for you and your skin:

1. Reduce wrinkles

The most common reason patients get chemical peels is to reduce fine lines and wrinkles that appear due to aging. The peel can be applied to the face, neck, or hands. For a superficial chemical peel, a chemical solution is applied to the skin that causes it to blister. Eventually the outermost layer peels away, and the dull outer layer is replenished with the smoother, more youthful skin below. 

2. Remove dark spots 

A medium chemical peel can also help reduce or remove age spots, freckles, and dark patches to even out the pigmentation of your skin. While a light chemical peel only reaches the epidermis (the outermost skin layer), a medium chemical peel reaches the superficial layer of the dermis, the layer just underneath. The result is a cleaner, more even skin tone. 

3. Minimize acne scars

A superficial or medium chemical peel can help remove acne scars. The peel serves as an exfoliator by removing dead skin cells on the surface. The removal of the outer layer promotes your skin’s ability to produce collagen, a structural protein, which helps fill in your acne scars. A good peel will even unclog pores to help prevent future breakouts from occurring.

4. Reduce sun damage

Chemical peels remove wrinkles and spots created by sun damage. Exposure to UV rays from the sun accelerates the appearance of aged skin; a superficial chemical peel can reverse those effects to create a more youthful appearance. 

Recovery

Following the procedure, your skin will have to go through a recovery process. It will be more vulnerable to sunlight, and therefore must be protected until it is completely healed. The depth of the peel will determine how long it will take your skin to heal.  A superficial chemical peel can heal in one to seven days. A medium chemical peel will heal within a few weeks. 

Good candidates

You’re typically a good candidate if you have lighter skin. If you have darker skin, you can still benefit from a chemical peel, but it may cause discoloration and uneven pigmentation after the treatment. The chemical peel also doesn’t help with skin sags, severe wrinkles, or deeper scars. 

Risks

Chemical peels come with a set of risks depending on your skin. They can cause permanent darkening or lightening of your skin. They can also lead to scarring and infection, and they can even reactivate the herpes zoster virus. 

If you think chemical peels are right for you, or if you want more information, please call our office at 949-248-1632 or book an appointment online. 

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