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What Are the Different Types of Chemical Peels (And Which One Is Right for You)?

Chemical peels are an easy, effective way to rejuvenate skin and look years younger. Several types of chemical peels are available from our experts at Steele Creek Dermatology in Charlotte, NC. Which one is right for you?

What It Does

A chemical peel uses one or more chemical solutions to safely remove damaged outer layers of skin. Once the older, damaged layers are removed, newer, fresher-looking skin naturally grows to replace it. All types of chemical peel treatments ultimately take advantage of the biological rejuvenating process that’s already inside in your body.

Chemical peels can be used to improve skin on the face, neck, hands, or anywhere that has uneven tone or has become wrinkled, spotted, or scarred due to sun exposure, acne, or aging. Liver spots, rough skin, and scaly patches are also good candidates for improvement through our chemical peels.

Which Types of Chemical Peels Are Available?

There are generally three types of chemical peels used to improve your skin. Depending on the type of peel called for, phenol, trichloroacetic acid and alphahydroxy acids, or a combination of these are used.

Light Peels

Light chemical peels remove the epidermis, or outermost layer of skin, in a gentle exfoliation. These types of chemical peels typically use alphahydroxy acids and are mild choices for your skin. A light peel may be just the ticket for you if you’re treating acne, uneven skin tone, or smoothing fine lines and wrinkles.

Since they’re so low-impact, patients can receive light chemical peels regularly to achieve their desired look. Light chemical peels aren’t meant for immediate dramatic effects. Your skin’s healthy glow increases as you receive more treatments.

Medium Peels

Medium chemical peels remove the epidermis and the dermis: both the outer layer and upper-middle layer of your skin. Trichloroacetic acid is typically used in medium peels, and these acids have a more dramatic effect than those used in light peels. The results you receive are more distinct.

If you’re looking to smooth out deeper wrinkles or acne scars, you can achieve the right look with these types of chemical peels. With a medium chemical peel, you can expect your skin to be noticeably smoother and younger-looking after just one treatment.

Deep Peels

Deep chemical peels use phenol to penetrate your skin to the lower dermal layer, which causes your skin to regenerate from deep within. This is the most intensive type of chemical peel treatment. After a deep peel, it is important to use your prescribed moisturizer and stay out of the sun while your skin heals.

A deep peel is best for patients that want to repair scars, sun damage, blotches, deep lines and wrinkles, and unwanted growths. The results from this treatment are dramatic and can last up to 10 years.

Talk to Us

Contact Steele Creek Dermatology in Charlotte, NC to schedule your consultation. Our expert team will work with you to determine the most effective types of chemical peels for your skin. You’ll love our results and love how you’ll look!

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