What are the different types of chemical peels?

There are many different types of chemical peel. Peels are categorized in different ways, but mainly according to the primary ingredient or how deep the penetration. When you get a chemical peel at the spa, you are getting either a superficial or medium peel. Deep peels are usually done by a doctor.

Superficial and medium peels have a range of penetrating power depending on the type of acid used in the peel: lactic acid, salicylic acid, or glycolic acid. Lactic acid is the mildest and glycolic acid is the strongest. Some brands, such as Image, mix different types of acids into unique formulas, so there may not be one dominant type of acid in the peel. When ordering a Image brand peel, it is best to let the aestheticians know if you want a mild or strong peel.

What are the most popular chemical peels?

Strong peels are the most popular at the spa. Mild peels are usually for very light pigment skin, sensitive skin or for first time peels. Most women prefer the strong peels based on glycolic acid. Strong peels have the best effect for most women after the first time out.*

What chemical peel should I start with?

At Bellissimo You, we like to use a milder peel when we are meeting a client for the first time. We gage their skin at that point because, although we may know our acid peels, the unknown variable at that time is the new client’s skin.

How long do chemical peels last?

The length of the effect is determined by the type of peel you get. A strong peel can have long lasting effects, possibly up to a year. Mild, or ‘lunch peels’ can last for a month or two. To get the maximum benefit from chemical peels, you should consult an aesthetician and develop a skin care program that includes chemical peels. Often, getting a series of peels over a period of time may have the best and longest-lasting benefits.

What is a Jessner chemical peel?

A Jessner peel is a medium depth (moderate) chemical peel that is very popular. It contains three main ingredients: lactic acid, salycilic acid and resorcinol. At Bellissimo You, we do not offer the Jessner peel. Instead, we offer we offer a Perfection Lift Peel which is similar to the Jessner but a tad bit stronger.

Can I get a chemical peel for my legs?

Yes. Chemical peels are done on the legs, however, reports from the field show mixed results. Facial peels get the healing benefit of a large amount of blood in the face. The supply of blood in the leg is much less, so the healing process is not as complete. Getting a peel on the legs may not get you the results you want. For scars and discoloration on the legs, it may be better to try a topical cream.

What is the stronges glycolic acid OTC (over the counter)?

Some of the strongest glycolic acid peel products you can get over-the-counter are 50% to 70% glycolic acid. However, you should probably not be searching for the strongest OTC chemical peel unless you are a licensed aesthetician. If you want to do a peel at home and are getting the peel at a local store, you should stick with a mild peel. Mild peels are safer for a DIY approach. Once you start to get into the stronger peels it is best to do them at the spa with a licensed aestethician.

What are the benefits of a chemical peel?

Chemical peels have many benefits for your skin. They reduce fine lines and wrinkles. Acne can be greatly reduced and acne scars diminished by peels. Discoloration and hyper-pigmentation can be removed by a chemical peel. Peels removed the damaged upper layers of skin and reveal the youthful skin underneath. This process is excellent for your skin and has more benefits than listed here. That is why chemical peels are one of th most popular spa treatments available today.

What should I do after a chemical peel?

When you get a chemical peel at the spa, your aesthetician will outline a post-treatment protocol that you should follow. Different peels have different post treatment procedures. In general, you should stay out of the sun, use a sunblock (50% or higher) and a moisturizer daily for a week to 10 days after the peel. Keep your facial skin hydrated and avoid the sun are the two main things you should do.

Can I use numbing antiseptic with chamomile extract on my face before glycolic peel?

Numbing antiseptics are sometimes used before chemical peels. Antiseptics with chamomile extract are often used before waxing. However, if you are going to have a peel at the spa, consult with your aesthetician before applying any numbing antiseptic cream. Your aesthetican will help you decide if it is necessary and help you choose a product that has been tested and is safe.

Are there glycolic peels for home use?

Yes, you can purchase glycolic peel solutions for home use.

What is a phenol peel?

Phenol peels are the strongest and deepest peels you can get. They are aggressive and deep penetrating. Most spas do not offer phenol peels because they are very strong and make permanent changes to your skin color. These peels are also not recommended for darker skin because of the dramatic skin lightening. If you are thinking of getting a phenol peel, you should consult a dermatologist or doctor first.

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*Results may vary from person to person. Results are not guaranteed.

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Chemical Peel FAQ