Our skin reflects the way in which we live our lives. It is our outermost protection against the world around us. As a result, our skin shows the weathering, scarring, and experience of our time spent on the earth. To treat the imperfections and blemishes that arise as a result of a life well lived, we must invest in trusted and effective methods for restoring the youthful vitality of our skin.

Chemical peels are a terrific option for rejuvenating complexion, removing unwanted spots and scarring, and tightening loose skin. As the active ingredients in these peels penetrate the skin at different depths depending on the individual needs of the patient, they have a wide range of uses and can be customized to target an array of skin conditions.

What do Chemical Peels Treat?

Chemical peels can contain a variety of active ingredients intended to treat many skin ailments, including various natural acids, vitamins, retinols, and antioxidants. Here is a list of skin conditions and concerns that can be dramatically improved with the use of chemical peels.

  • Fine lines and wrinkles (particularly affecting the sensitive skin around the eyes and mouth)
  • Wrinkles caused by sun damage and other environmental stressors
  • Mild scarring
  • Active acne blemishes
  • Age spots, hyperpigmentation, melasma, and other forms of skin discoloration
  • Rough skin texture
  • Uneven skin tone

The Distinction Between Light, Medium, and Deep Chemical Peels

At Skintherapy, we offer chemical peels designed to reach different depths in the skin to address specific needs. Depending on the purpose of the peel, chemical potency and duration of application will vary. Here is a breakdown of how chemical peels are applied at different depths and the benefits of each.

  • Light Chemical Peels: Meant to address superficial issues only, light chemical peels contain relatively gentle acids and ingredients in comparison to more potent treatments. Acids naturally found in fruits, as well as lesser concentrations of salicylic acid, act to treat issues caused by normal day-to-day activities. These peels are ideal for regular use and have a much shorter recovery time than other options.
  • Medium Chemical Peels: Medium peels typically employ more robust chemical ingredients, such as trichloroacetic acid, and are used to treat such issues as fine lines, active acne blemishes, and slight pigmentation issues. The recovery period for medium chemical peels is slightly longer than light chemical peels, ranging from 3 to 7 days, depending on the patient.
  • Deep Chemical Peels: These are the truly transformative peel options and work to address deep wrinkling, age spots, pigmentation, skin texture, and uneven skin tone. Deep chemical peels contain the strongest active ingredients of the three peel types and, as a result, are only to be used on occasion. As the results are much more dynamic than light and medium chemical peels, the downtime for these peels is much longer, usually within the 1- to 2-month range. Although the recovery time is long, the results last even longer.

About Jennifer

Jennifer Curtin is a medical aesthetician who is nationally recognized for her expertise in medical skin care. With more than 20 years of experience in medical aesthetics, she is dedicated to the aesthetic industry and has received awards of merit including the International CIDESCO Certification, Assistant Cosmetic Laser Practitioner and National Leadership Award. Jennifer is the president of Skintherapy, a leading med spa in the Buckhead area of Atlanta. To schedule a complimentary appointment with Jennifer, call 404-358-2961 or click here to submit a consult request online.