Health

CHEMICAL PEELS 101: DIFFERENT TYPES

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By Kaleem Ullah

In the mid1880s, chemical peels Toronto were caustic and caused extreme skin irritation. They were something that was either used by socialites or Hollywood Stars. This trend stayed till the mid 20th century. Since then, there has been a drastic change in chemical peels. Back in the day, heavy sedation or general anaesthesia was required for undergoing a chemical peel. With the innovation, these peels have become safer and highly effective. Previously banned in Canada, the new Acid peels have evolved to become a norm of the day. The peel can be easily done during the lunch break. There is little to no downtime associated with it. A chemical peel can target various skin concerns like acne scarring, hyperpigmentation and signs of ageing. Some of the popular chemical peels are as follows:

Glycolic Acid

Congested skin is something that both teenagers and adults deal with. When the skin is congested, it can give rise to acne. Using exfoliants like Glycolic acid can help to keep the pores clear. This acid is derived from the sugar case. Having a small molecular structure makes it easier to penetrate the top layer of the skin. By penetrating the skin, it exfoliates it. The acid works to efficiently clear the pores of hardened oil, debris and bacteria. If there are whiteheads or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, it can be easily targeted through this chemical peel. It is recommended to undergo it with a gap of 2 to 3 weeks between them. You will begin to see a noticeable change after the first month. The best way to achieve and maintain clear and smooth skin is by continued treatments.

Salicylic Acid

It is another acid that is great for clearing congested skin. Salicylic Acid is a beta hydroxy acid. This acid is derived from the willow tree and has natural properties of anti-inflammation. If you have red, inflamed pimples and papules, Salicylic Acid would be a great choice. It is an excellent choice for dehydrated, sensitive skins, psoriasis, ingrown hair and seborrheic dermatitis. If you have an aspirin allergy, you should avoid this chemical peel.

Kojic Acid

When the skin begins to show signs of premature ageing, chemical peels are a great way to target that. Kojic acid is a by-product of the fermentation process of the production of Japanese Sake. This unique acid impacts your skin by intense lightning as it stimulates the overproduction of melanin. It contains Vitamin C, which decreases the occurrences of free radical production. It also repairs and heals the skin that has been damaged by the environment.

Retinoic Acid

Also known as Tretinoin, it is an active form of Vitamin A. It works to renew the ageing skin cells. Doing so helps to reveal the fresh baby skin. Retinoic Acid is known for stimulating the production of elastin and collagen in the deep layers of the skin. The constant cell turnover leads to the normalization of keratin cells and decreases the atypical cells. The chemical peel treatment lasts for about 4 months.