Skin Peels for Acne & Melasma
A common treatment for skin conditions these days are skin peels. These peels involve the use of chemicals to remove the top layers of skin to create a more even skin texture and coloring. Although chemical peels are associated with wrinkle treatments most of the time, they can also be used to treat acne and melasma. Does this Spark an idea?
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What Are Skin Peels?
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Skin peels are basically a treatment that involves applying an acid to the skin to remove the outermost layers of skin. The acid remains on the skin for a given period of time before being removed. Skin peels are used to treat a variety of skin conditions from acne to melasma, a skin disorder that causes a dark rash.
Skin Peel Types
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Skin peels can be generally broken into two categories: mild and strong. Mild peels usually contain substances such as alpha hydroxy acids or AHAs like lactic acid, glycolic acid or beta hydroxy acids, which are normally found in acne creams. However, stronger peels are also available that penetrate into deeper layers of the skin. Because of this, they must be used under close observation, only. Examples include phenols and trichloroacetic acid.
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After the Peel
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After a skin peel, it's normal for your skin to look irritated and red. Because a peel is literally the burning of the top layer of your skin, this makes sense. Other after effects include itchiness, dry skin and some peeling. In some cases, the newly exposed tissue will form scabs. To counteract these symptoms, creams are prescribed to keep the skin moisturized as it heals.
Side Effects
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Like with any treatment, side effects can occur with skin peels. Because the chemicals are rather harsh, some people experience a negative reaction. For some, the skin can get crusty and ooze. For others, it can become uncomfortably tight. Pretty much everyone who undergoes a chemical peel will suffer from an increased sensitivity to sunlight, however, so sunscreen should be worn at all times.
Skin Peel Candidates
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Most people can benefit from a skin peel should they have concerns over their skin's appearance due to acne or melasma. However, some people are better candidates than others. Those with lighter skin are more likely to have a positive result. Those with darker skin may end up with an uneven skin tone. Smokers are also advised not to undergo this procedure.
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