Want to improve the texture and tone of your skin? Or make dark spots, scars, and wrinkles disappear?  If you are looking for a solution to one of these problems or all of them, Chemical peel has got you covered.

Chemical peeling is pretty popular these days. Experts believe as one of the most effective skincare solutions. It involves using an acidic solution to exfoliate your skin. The best part is, you can do it at home. Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about chemical peeling at home

The purpose of a chemical peel is to remove dead, dull, and dry skin cells on the top layer to reveal vibrant, smoother, and youthful skin. A chemical peel can effectively treat a myriad of skin concerns, including blackheads and whiteheads, sun damage, decreased excess oil production, fine lines, correct PIH, lighten the skin tone, and improved complexion and lighten acne marks and dark spots.

While you can undoubtedly have this kind of treatment done at your skincare specialist or dermatologist, many people choose to do an at-home chemical peel. These treatments contain a much lower dosage of glycolic and lactic acid than you would get from a doctor but promise to provide the most in-depth exfoliation leaving you with reduced hyperpigmentation, fewer fine lines, and radiant skin.

The amount of skin lifted away is determined by the chemical used, the acid’s concentration, the time applied, and how long it remains on the skin’s surface. While chemicals can leave you with a smoother and more radiant complexion, it is crucial to make sure you are using the product correctly and with caution.

The chemical peels that people use at home are always superficial. So, the chemical peel you choose depends on the skin concerns you want to address, as these peels differ in the depth penetration. For example, if the peel aims to exfoliate, then use a chemical peel that targets the skin’s top layer (epidermis) to address pigmentation, age spots, and Melasma. A medium peel is beneficial. Use a deep chemical peel if the objective is to fight wrinkles. It penetrates right through the dermis; you need to be very careful; it is better not to take risks. You should see a dermatologist before using any harsh chemicals on your skin.

 Are there any side effects of chemical peels?

Yes, chemical peels may cause the following side effects:

• Redness, depending on the depth of your treatment
• Scarring
• Chemical peeling, if not done the right way, can cause a fungal or bacterial infection.

Who should not do a chemical peel at home?

Chemical peeling is not suitable for everyone. You should not get a chemical peeling if:

• You have abnormal skin pigmentation
• Cuts or broken skin
• You are taking isotretinoin medicine for acne
• Those with Ultrasensitive skin, including those with eczema, psoriasis. If you also have a history of keloids
• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should avoid ingredients like salicylic acid, hydroquinone, glycolic, and lactic acid.

If you have a darker skin tone, chemical peeling can develop mild to moderate side effects caused by melanocytes’ inflammation. Instead of removing the hyperpigmentation, the treatment creates more dark marks, hyperpigmentation, and scarring. However, if you must undergo that procedure, then a Superficial peel is ideal for a dark complexion. They have a little downtime, as the skin heals quickly, and it is easy to control the outcome. On the other hand, medium peels tend to be too aggressive for darker skin tones, whereas deep peels are unsuitable due to the risk of severe scarring.

Now that you know what a chemical peel does and the potential side effects of the chemical, here are some tips for doing chemical peeling at home.

Now let us discuss how you can do it at home;

1. Clean your face- Before applying the chemical peeling, make sure your face is clean. Use a gentle and soap-free cleanser.
2. Protect the sensitive Parts-Areas like the skin around your eyes; your lips and nostrils are susceptible. Apply petroleum jelly on those areas to protect them from the acid.
3. Now apply the chemical peel solution- Use a cotton swab or a cotton pad to apply the chemical solution on your face. Please start with the less sensitive areas, such as the skin on your forehead, cheeks, chin, and then apply it to your nose and neck.
4. Leave it on as per the manufacturer’s instructions or your dermatologist- They know best; the wait time varies with the Ingredients. Keeping it on for a lesser time than the recommended time is always safe. For example, if the instruction asks you to leave it for 5 minutes, remove it after 2 minutes 30 seconds.
5. Remove the peel- Well done, you did it, now remove the chemical as recommended, apply a neutralizing solution. Typically, all the products come with a neutralizing solution. The solution stops the chemical from working on your skin.

What to do after a chemical peel?

After a chemical peeling, you need to be very cautious about what you put on your skin. It is essential to take care of your skin in the healing process to heal your skin properly.

• Follow instruction from your dermatologist or skincare specialist
• Treat your skin gently
• Do not exfoliate or use any other harsh product for 3-5 days
• Avoid working out or anything that would make you sweat.
• Refrain from picking or peeling any loose skin.

 The essential products you should use after a chemical peel are a moisturizer and Sunscreen. Moisturizing is the best way to keep your skin calm. This is a must-have product throughout the day; it keeps dry skin hydrated and restores some moisture. The moisturizer should be free of harsh chemicals, which could irritate your already sensitive skin.

Lastly, Sunscreen is a must after a chemical peeling treatment. Your skin will be sensitive, especially to the sun’s UV rays, because your skin is damaged and still renewing after the peel, and it is extremely vulnerable to harmful sun rays. So, it is crucial to use a good quality sunscreen that offers UVA and UVB protection with an SPF of 30 or higher. Also, be sure that the Sunscreen you use is gentle enough, so it should not irritate your post-peel skin.

Give it a try, and trust me, you will not regret it. Do not forget to share your experience with us