Should I Have a Body Peel?
Our faces are not the only places age spots, blemishes and scars can appear. Many men and women who are looking for ways to rejuvenate the skin on their arms, legs, chest and back often turn to body chemical peels – but is a body peel right for you?
Body chemical peels are similar to facial peels and are simply applied to other areas of the body. The goal of a body peel is generally to remove stretch marks, tighten the skin, get rid of dead skin and improve the skin’s texture and tone. Usually body peels will be made from an Alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) or will be a TCA peel.
Just like facial peels, body peels range from light to deep. Remember, body peels tend to be stronger then facial peels. Intensive chemical peels are recommended for more serious problems and generally have a longer recovery time, but they are more effective than lighter peels. Light treatments are best for people who want to have a short recovery time, but may require more applications before the desired results are reached.
A doctor or dermatologist will help you decide the correct chemical peel for your skin. Some clients may only need a light peel to remove superficial problems, while others will require a deeper peel. Talk to your doctor about your specific expectations and he or she will be able to tell you where the chemical peel should be applied, how many peels you will need to achieve the desired results and give you a good idea of the risks involved. Only your doctor will be able to evaluate your medical history, current medications and make the best recommendation for you.
Approximately two weeks before the peel, you should begin to use only soap and water to cleanse the area where the chemical peel will be applied. A moisturizer or AHA cream should be applied to the area after it is thoroughly cleansed. AHA creams will help your chemical peel penetrate more layers of skin and may mean you see results sooner. Try to keep the area away from the sun’s UVA and UVB rays. Extended exposure to the sun before your peel may make your skin sensitive and cause more irritation during your chemical peel. Always use sunscreen before you leave the house and try to keep the area covered if possible.
Your body peel will be administered in much the same way as a facial peel. Directly before the peel is applied, the area will be cleansed to remove oils and makeup. The peel will be applied with a cotton ball or cotton swab and after the appropriate time, it will be neutralized and washed away. Your recovery period and follow up care is also very similar to a facial peel.
Body chemical peels are a great way to get rid of unwanted scars, blemishes and uneven pigmentation. When researching which chemical peel is right for you, be sure to read product reviews and consult your doctor or dermatologist. Educating yourself before a chemical peel is the easiest way to ensure you are satisfied with the final results.