When it comes to popular skin-care treatments, there are plenty of options on the market. You've got everything from microneedling to butt facials on the menu, and it can be difficult figuring out which service is right for your skin type and needs. One procedure that tends to be the most misunderstood? Chemical peels.
Thanks to a certain episode of "Sex and the City," the thought of getting a chemical peel has become a lot scarier to many than it actually is. The truth is that they're very safe to get when done by a professional, because experts are able to control the potency of the treatment, and when done correctly can boast a ton of skin-care benefits. The ingredients will usually differ from person-to-person, but typically, the results are always well worth it.
In case you're curious about what a chemical peel is and why it serves as a great facial treatment from time to time, we're here to break it down for you - with help from a couple of experts, of course. Learn all about the different types of chemical peels, as well as the benefits and safety information.
Experts Featured in This Article
Azza Halim, MD, is a board-certified physician and anesthesiologist with offices in Florida, Chicago, and California.
Marnie Nussbaum, MD, is a dermatologist and founder of Lines Meet Lines. She has a practice located in New York.
What Is a Chemical Peel?
According to dermatologist Azza Halim, MD, a chemical peel is "a formulation of various chemicals that are intended to help remove the top layer of the skin to reveal healthier skin." There are several different types of chemical peels, and each one can address various skin concerns.
"Glycolic acid peels are great for exfoliating, as they penetrate deep into the skin," Dr. Halim tells PS. "Lactic acid peels are derived from milk and gentle for sensitive skin, as well as moisturizing for dry skin. We also have salicylic acid peels, TCA peels, retinol peels, and so much more, and each can be used alone or combined, depending on the skin's needs."
Chemical Peel Benefits
Chemical peels have a long list of benefits. They usually help minimize dullness, pores, the appearance of fine lines, scars, and hyperpigmentation.
"These are great for anyone that desires more rejuvenated skin, as well as to treat various conditions such as acne and acne scars, hyperpigmentation, sunspots, pores, fine lines, aging skin, uneven skin tone, [and] texture, as well as balancing oil secretion," Dr. Halim says. "I always recommend to my patients to get peels in between laser treatments to maintain and prolong the results of their lasers, as well as for skin health."
Are Chemical Peels Safe?
Despite what you may have heard (or seen on TV), chemical peels are typically safe when performed by a dermatologist or aesthetician. They're typically customized according to your skin type and its needs, but generally speaking, you can get a chemical peel if you're experiencing a myriad of skin concerns.
How to Prep For a Chemical Peel
If you've made a chemical peel appointment with a dermatologist or aesthetician, the first thing you should do is discontinue your use of retinol, acne treatments, and prescription topicals for at least seven days before the treatment. "Stay away from irritating products because you don't want to aggravate your skin further," dermatologist Marnie Nussbaum, MD, previously told PS.
You should also head to your appointment with clean skin that's free of makeup. "We don't want sebum or oil to prevent the peel from penetrating the skin," Dr. Nussbaum says.
Chemical Peel Aftercare
The best thing you can do for your skin after getting a chemical peel is to make sure you're keeping it hydrated and wearing sunscreen. "You don't want to cause burning or hyperpigmentation, so sunscreen is important," Dr. Nussbaum says. You should also stay away from harsh and abrasive products that might irritate the skin further.
- Additional reporting by Renee Rodriguez
Danielle Jackson was a former assistant editor for PS Beauty.
Renee Rodriguez is a staff writer and social producer for PS. She writes across all verticals, but her main areas of expertise focus on fashion and beauty content with an emphasis on reviews and editor experiments. She also produces social content for the PS TikTok and Instagram accounts.