How to Lighten Your Complexion With a Chemical Peel

Chemical peels are used to treat a variety of skin ailments such as wrinkles, scars, acne and dark spots. Whether you have freckles, age spots or other dark marks on your skin that you would like lightened, chemical peels can help to brighten your complexion.

Things You'll Need

• Dermatologist

Instructions

1. Talk to your dermatologist about your skin-lightening desires and inquire about chemical peels. Your doctor may have other suggestions for you to try before chemical peels. Lightening creams are less invasive and gentler on the skin so he may recommend that you try those solutions first.

2. Determine where you'll get your chemical peel. While many spas offer chemical peels, you may wish to have your dermatologist perform the peel. Since she is already familiar with your skin and a medical professional, you may find you have better care.

3. Discuss various types of peels with your dermatologist. Light or superficial peels are appropriate for all skin types, and treat the top layers of the skin. Your doctor may recommend that you get a series of light peels. Medium peels penetrate deeper into the skin, and actually cause a second-degree burn. Deep peels penetrate the deepest, treating many layers of skin and also causing a second-degree burn. Recovery time from a deep peel is usually about two weeks. Your dermatologist will be able to recommend what peel type is appropriate for your lightening goals.

4. Prepare for your chemical peel. In the weeks leading up to the peel, you should avoid sun exposure. Do not spend extended time in the sun and wear sunscreen with a high SPF for incidental exposure. Do not apply any self-tanning lotions in the week prior, and do not tweeze, bleach or wax the area where you will have the chemical peel applied. It's also wise to avoid using facial scrubs in the week preceding the treatment.

5. Expect some discomfort during and after your peel. During the treatment, you'll feel a tingling or burning sensation in your face. Your doctor will likely have a fan nearby to cool the burning feeling. In the days following your peel, your skin may be red and blotchy. You may experience some swelling, peeling or scabbing. These issues will be more pervasive with deeper peels.

6. Follow your doctor's instructions for aftercare. He will likely instruct you to avoid masks and scrubs for a few weeks. Some dermatologists require a follow-up visit to monitor your skin's condition, particularly after deep peels.

7. Stay out of the sun. It's imperative that you stay out of the sun following a chemical peel. Wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen and protective clothing to guard against incidental sun exposure.

Tips & Warnings

• Drink lots of water before and after your peel. It helps to hydrate your skin from the inside.