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Can Chemical Peels Help with Sun Damaged Skin?

woman getting chemical peel

Chemical peels can help with sun-damaged skin on the face, hands, and neck. During the procedure, they will apply one or more acid solutions to the treatment area (glycolic, trichloroacetic, salicylic, lactic, or carbolic) that effectively removes the outermost layer of skin to reveal a smoother complexion with fewer lines and sunspots.

Does a Chemical Peel Get Rid of Sunspots?

Chemical peels not only remove sunspots but also improve the appearance of the following:

  • Scars
  • Wrinkles
  • Dark Spots
  • Fine lines around the eyes and mouth
  • Certain acne conditions
  • Acne scarring
  • Uneven skin tone

Can Chemical Peels Damage Skin?

Chemical peels work by producing a controlled wound to the treatment area. The acid in a chemical peel essentially burns away sunspots, wrinkles, and other undesirable skin conditions and reveals unblemished skin as it heals. Applied correctly for the condition you want to treat, a chemical peel shouldn’t leave lasting, unwanted effects. However, side effects can include:

  • Scarring
  • Discoloration of skin

How Do You Treat Your Skin After a Chemical Peel?

It’s important to follow your doctor’s orders after a chemical peel to get the best results and avoid any complications. These recommendations include:

  • Applying a sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher to the treatment area
  • Wearing a hat or using other physical barriers to shield the treatment area from sun exposure
  • Avoiding sun exposure from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. each day

What is the Best Chemical Peel for Aging Skin?

Dermatologists use trichloroacetic or glycolic acid to perform a “medium” peel for aging skin. These acids are effective in penetrating the outer and middle layers of skin to eliminate damaged skin cells. A “medium” peel will effectively reduce the appearance of the following:

  • Age Spots
  • Sunspots
  • Fine lines and wrinkles
  • Freckles
  • Skin Discoloration

This type of peel is also effective in smoothing out rough skin and eliminating pre-cancerous skin growths like actinic keratosis.

Do Chemical Peels Remove Dark Skin?

Chemical peels are an effective treatment for melasma, a condition where skin cells produce too much pigment that leads to patches of tan, brown, or gray. This condition usually occurs on areas of the face.

How Long Does It Take to Heal from a Chemical Peel?

Healing times vary based on the potency of the chemical peel. “Light” peels will heal in one day to a week. “Medium” peels usually heal after a week to two weeks. “Deep” peels may take as long as two weeks to heal the initial area with redness lasting for several months.

What Does a Glycolic Peel Do?

Glycolic peels can also treat skin imperfections. Because they don’t penetrate as deeply as other acids, they can be performed every two weeks. At-home formulations are also available.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

If you’d like to learn more about chemical peels and how it can improve your skin, make an appointment today with Keys Dermatology in Key West and Islamorada, FL. We provide the highest quality of dermatological services and give each person personalized attention and treatment.

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