Rejuvenate your skin with a skin peel

By Arusha Campbell-Chambers, skin, hair & nail health

Many persons consider this season of Lent a time for renewal. There are many ways in which we can enhance the renewal and rejuvenation of our skin. One procedure that can help achieve this is a chemical peel.

Chemical peels are acidic substances which are applied to the skin to remove the old and damaged top layers of the skin, leaving a healthy, fresh, youthful appearance with a more even colour and surface. They may also stimulate new collagen formation which improves the skin's texture. These acidic solutions can be derived from fruit, milk, sugar, tree bark and other natural products.

Chemical peels can be superficial, medium or deep. The type of chemical, as well as the strength and pH of it, helps determine the depth of the peel in the skin. Superficial peels have been used safely for many years in trained hands on all skin types. The deeper the peel, the greater the risk of side effects. Deep peels are not safe in darker skin types and are generally not very popular nowadays.

There are many benefits of chemical peels which include:

• Improving uneven skin complexion, treating dark spots.
• Smoothening rough texture and softening the skin.
• Treating acne.
• Reducing the appearance of acne scars and blackheads.
• Gradually helping to reduce fine lines and wrinkles.
• Removing damaged layers of sun-damaged skin.
• Reducing ingrown hairs and smoothening razor bumps.

Chemical peels can be done on the face and other body areas. A consultation is advised before undergoing a chemical peel. Pre-treatment creams may be prescribed or recommended for use a few weeks before the peel to enhance results and prevent uneven pigmentation. It is best to avoid harsh skin products and/or procedures days to weeks before a peel as advised. A broad spectrum sunscreen (SPF greater than 30) should be used.

Superficial peels may cause mild redness, puffiness or slight swelling, mild tingling or stinging and mild flaking. These usually resolve within two to four days. Medium-depth peels result in intense inflammation and swelling which resolve within seven to 10 days. The peeling is more severe. Mild redness can last for weeks. After a peel individuals should:

Use cold-water compresses to keep the area cool as needed. Avoid hot water and heavy exercise in the first 24 to 48 hours.

Moisturise the skin and protect it from the sun. Apply sunblock every few hours.

Avoid picking or scrubbing the skin as this slows the healing and can cause scarring.

Use recommended skincare products. Avoid perfumed products.

Side effects are not common with superficial peels. If they occur, they are usually temporary and may include redness, swelling, crusting, heavy scaling, dark or light spots on the skin, bumps and scarring. Some people may not see actual scaling but do get smoother skin.

A series of treatments several weeks or months apart is usually recommended to obtain desired results. Most people experience significant improvement after four to six chemical peels. This varies with the individual and the condition being treated.

Dr Arusha Campbell-Chambers is a dermatologist and founder of Dermatology Solutions Skin Clinics & Medi-Spas; email: yourhealth@gleanerjm.com.