Before you have a chemical peel, you should know whether it is right for your skin. This is important because some peels have side effects, and you should consult your physician before getting one. Also, you need to make sure that you have clear skin to begin with, so that the procedure won’t damage it.
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Can a chemical peel for acne work?
A chemical peel is a procedure used to remove pimples the outer layer of the skin. This allows for new skin to be created underneath. The result is smoother, less scarred skin. Because the peels are very powerful, they can be effective for people with acne scarring, but there are a few side effects. The first is a change in skin color, but this is temporary. The next side effect is a bandage that you will have to wear for several days.
The best way to find out whether a chemical peel is right for you is to schedule an appointment with a dermatologist. A board-certified dermatologist has the necessary training to safely administer this type of procedure and is familiar with different types of skin. Also, a dermatologist is best equipped to treat acne scarring.
Before the procedure, your dermatologist will cleanse your face and apply a chemical solution. You should avoid contact with your hair and eyes prior to the procedure, since a chemical peel can damage these sensitive parts of the skin. The chemical peel will also cause a burning sensation. During the peel, your dermatologist will use a neutralizer to minimize any possible side effects. The treated area will develop a crust and take 7 to 14 days to heal. Deeper peels may require a series of treatments over a couple of months.
After an acne chemical peel, you should avoid the sun for several months to minimize the risk of scarring. The new skin will be fragile and prone to infection. Your doctor will provide you with post-treatment instructions to help you minimize the risk of complications. You should also avoid using any other acid products after the peel to reduce the risk of skin blemishes.
How to prepare for a chemical peel
Preparation is the first step to a successful chemical peel. You will need to wash your face well in advance of the treatment, remove makeup, and any other debris. The next step is to choose a chemical peel that suits your skin type and color. You should avoid exposing the treated area to the sun for the first few days.
Before your treatment, disclose all medications and skincare products that you use. Your skin care specialist may ask you to stop using these medications for a certain period of time, or may give you specific aftercare instructions. You should also ensure that you are free of any open sores or infections. The doctor will provide you with specific instructions based on the type of chemical peel you are getting. If you have a deep chemical peel, you will be given a general anesthetic.
The recovery process from a chemical peel takes time. You should allow at least an hour after your treatment for it to be fully effective. After the treatment, you should wear sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun. You should also limit your exposure to tanning beds and hotter weather until the skin has healed fully. If you are considering a chemical peel, be sure to schedule your appointment early.
Before having a chemical peel, you should disclose any history of scarring, facial X-rays, and cold sores. Your doctor will also examine your skin and determine which peel is right for you. Your doctor may also recommend medications that will help prepare your skin for the procedure. You should also discuss your expectations before having the treatment, so you can prepare accordingly.
Side effects of a chemical peel
One of the most common side effects of a chemical peel for acne is redness. The condition may be mild or severe and can last for several days. The skin may also become crusty and swollen. The doctor may prescribe over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or naproxen sodium, to reduce the discomfort. After the procedure, patients should follow their doctor’s instructions and avoid picking or rubbing the affected area. It may take several months for the treatment to be fully effective.
Before the procedure, patients should avoid hair dyeing, bleaching, and other procedures that might increase the skin’s sensitivity. Patients should also avoid shaving in the area prior to the peel. They should also avoid using makeup and facial masks for 24 hours before the procedure. Additionally, they should plan to arrange for transportation home. For deeper acne scars chemical peels, patients are given general anesthesia.
Typically, patients will need to wear a protective ointment after the procedure to prevent drying and irritation. The skin will look like it’s been sunburned for a few days. Fortunately, the redness will fade over the next few days, although there is a possibility that it might appear darker or lighter than normal.
Conclusion
Some people may experience a stinging sensation. This is common after a medium or deep chemical peel, but may not occur after a light chemical peel. Patients who have fair skin may experience hypopigmentation or hyperpigmentation after a medium or deep peel. This pigmentation may not fade completely and may remain permanent. Some patients may also develop cold sores as a result of a chemical peel.
