Clinical Peels

Regularly exfoliating the skin is important in maintaining healthy, glowing skin. New skin cells are created in the skin’s lower layer, the dermis. Over time, cells migrate to the surface of the skin and become more acidic. As we age the natural process of skin erosion becomes uneven, which gives skin a dry and rough character. Exfoliation removes the outer layer to reveal the newer skin beneath. This shedding of the outer layer unclogs pores, refines texture, reduces fine lines and helps reduce acne breakouts. This is important for men as it exposes the hair follicles, allowing for a better shave.

Exfoliation involves the removal of the oldest dead skin cells on the skin’s outermost surface, and has been used for many years to help maintain the skin. Exfoliation can be achieved through mechanical or chemical means. Examples of mechanical exfoliation would be a facial scrub or microdermabrasion. Examples of chemical exfoliation would be a chemical peel or enzyme mask. Many believe chemical exfoliation is a better choice when it comes to exfoliating as it produces a more even exfoliation and can achieve deeper exfoliation in a more gentle fashion. Chemical exfoliation is also a better choice when treating acne as mechanical exfoliation can spread the bacteria that causes acne over the skins surface.

The chemical peel is one of the oldest cosmetic procedures in the world, and was performed in ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome to help people achieve smoother, more beautiful skin. Today, chemical facial peels are popular because they offer nearly immediate results and can be performed with little to no downtime. There are many different types of chemical peels used to treat different skin afflictions. Two of the most common are Glycolic peels and Salicylic peels.

 Glycolic acid, a natural constituent of sugar cane juice is one of the mildest of the peel formulas and produces light peels for treatment of fine wrinkles, areas of dryness, uneven pigmentation and mild acne. They weaken the binding properties that hold the dead skin cells together and stimulate new growth of skin underneath. This allows the outer layer of dead skin cells to be removed gradually. The skin underneath has a healthier, fresher appearance with more even color and texture. Glycolic peels also stimulate collagen production which slows down as we age. Collagen is what gives our skin its plump, supple appearance. Glycolic acid can also be mixed with a facial wash or cream in lesser concentrations as part of a daily skin-care regimen to improve the skin’s texture.

 Salicylic acid is a biosynthesized, organic, beta hydroxy acid (BHA). Salicylic peels reduce oil production and scrub out pores which make them very effective in treating acne and reducing breakouts. Salicylic acid can produce a more intense peeling but is more naturally accepted by the body than other acids which make it a better choice for those with sensitive skin and roseacea.

There are many other types of peels varying in strength, and only professionals can administer stronger acid concentrations. During a chemical peel treatment the face should be thoroughly cleansed prior to application. Peels are usually left on the face for only a few minutes, depending on the strength. The solution is then neutralized and washed off. Mild redness, stinging and irritation may occur. Stronger peels may cause more redness and the recovery time may last several days. There is little to no recovery time with milder glycolic treatments. Mild peeling may occur for a few days following treatment. These treatments can be repeated every two to four weeks due to rapid recovery rates. Multiple treatments may be needed to see the desired results. The use of a high quality sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30 is important after receiving a chemical peel to protect the new more sensitive skin and maintain the results achieved.

With the many types of peels available, you have options for achieving beautiful skin in a few short weeks. Ready to book your appointment? Call Oakville Plastic Surgery at (905) 901-9545 to set up your consultation and learn about treatment options.