Chemical acid peels, which are often used to improve the appearance, texture, and tone of the skin on the face, have many benefits. Some of these go beyond cosmetic, although that is usually the most sought-after benefit.
A chemical peel works by removing dead skin cells, and, depending on the type and strength of acid peels used, may even remove a thin layer of skin. Even removing dead skin cells can have its own benefits, as the skin looks fresher and more healthy. It may even have a “glowing” appearance, at least for a little while.
Dead skin cells can actually cause a build-up on the face. When this occurs, the skin cells can block facial pores, which can lead to blackheads or pimples forming. Removing the dead skin cells through a chemical acid peel exposes the healthy skin underneath.
Done correctly, acid peels can reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and even remove small growths, such as skin tags, which sometimes occur on the face and neck area. When a chemical peel is used for this purpose, it may not be applied to the entire face, but rather just to the skin tag itself and perhaps a small area surrounding the tag.
If you are considering giving yourself an overall chemical peel, it is a good idea to go ahead and remove any skin tags you may have first, and let those places heal completely. Then, go ahead and treat your entire face to a chemical acid peel. In this way, you will not be over treating certain areas, and the result will be a more uniform appearance and improvement.
The benefits of a chemical acid peel differ depending on the strength and type of solution used. For example, a TCA chemical peel is stronger than an Alphahydroxy acid or Glycolic acid peel, and will thus will produce different results. More dead skin cells are removed, and the TCA chemical peel penetrates the skin surface deeper than weaker acid peels. The benefits include the treatment itself lasting longer, making it possible to go for an extended length of time before it is necessary to perform another treatment.
It is possible to do a chemical peel in the privacy of your own home, as long as you follow instructions carefully. This can have benefits of its own, as you do not have to make an appointment with a dermatologist-one which may not be covered by insurance if it is considered a cosmetic procedure. In addition, no one but you will know the real secret behind your new look, because you do not have to leave the house until your skin has completely healed from the treatment. During this time, you do not have to worry about putting on make-up, which can irritate skin left slightly sensitive by the procedure. By the time you are ready to face the public, the only thing people will see is your “new” face.
The same thing can apply to removing skin tags. Because acid peels do work on these, you can remove them yourself, rather than again having to make an appointment with a dermatologist. Again, you can stay inside until the places where the skin tags once were have healed completely. This can actually help in preventing infection, especially if the peel, even though it was done correctly, causing a small open wound. Further, you can wear clothing that will not rub against or irritate the places.
The main benefit of a chemical acid peel is the rejuvenation of your spirit. Once your skin has healed, and you see the results, you are naturally going to feel better about yourself. And, there is nothing wrong with that.