Effects of Facial Peels on Acne Sufferers
When attempting to treat acne, most people will try anything, just as long as it gets rid of those unsightly spots. One often overlooked treatment option is a facial peel. Though normally used to remove wrinkles and to fix uneven skin, facial peels can also be used to eliminate acne and create a smoother texture of skin. Does this Spark an idea?
-
What Are Facial Peels?
-
Facial peels are very useful for evening out the skin and creating a smoother texture. They involve applying a strong acid to the skin, allowing it to set for a designated period of time, then removing it. The acid is often an alpha hydroxy acid or AHA-like lactic acid or glycolic acid, and works to remove the top layers of the skin to reveal healthy skin free of blemishes underneath.
Types of Chemical Peels
-
There are generally two types of facial peels used to treat acne. The first are alpha hydroxy acids or AHAs. The second are beta hydroxy acids or BHAs, which are also mild and include typical acne-fighting substances such as salicylic acid. There are also stronger facial peels available, but they must be used under strict watch. These include trichloroacetic acid and phenols. which are effective but can cause signifiant skin sensitivity to the sun.
-
What to Expect After a Facial Peel
-
Immediately following a facial peel, your skin my look red or a bit irritated. This is normal, and depending on how strong your peel was, your symptoms may vary. It's generally normal to experience skin peeling, tightness, redness, itchiness and even scabs after a chemical peel, especially strong ones. You will be prescribed special creams to keep your skin hydrated and moisturized following the treatment. Failing to use these creams properly can cause damage to your skin and allow the acne to continue. Several treatments are usually required for the best results.
Side Effects
-
Side effects of facial peels can include crusting of the skin, dryness, flakiness and increased sensitivity to sunlight.
Who Can Get a Facial Peel?
-
Just about anyone can get a facial peel but results tend to be better for those with light skin. While chemical peels can be effective for those with darker skin, there is an increased likelihood of the treatment causing permanent skin pigment change, making for an uneven skin tone. Smokers usually are not allowed to get this treatment.
-
