Scenario: you’ve got aging, acne-scarred skin. You go for a chemical peel, only to have your skin burnt, forcing you into hiding for weeks… except this isn’t what’s going to happen. The reality is that many of the horror stories around chemical peels are myths. Here are some of the common myths about chemical peels, as well as the truth behind them.
Myth #1: Chemical Peels HURT.
This is an exaggeration. According to Patient’s Guide, the chemicals in some peels actually function as anesthetics, limiting the amount of pain you might feel, while others may elicit a “slight stinging sensation.” That’s it! Not so scary, right?
Furthermore, some chemical peels, like alpha-hydroxy and glycolic acid peels, require little to no recovery time. Chemical peels come in varying intensities, depending on what you are using them for. You have many options to choose from depending on your needs, so don’t be shy to ask about different kinds.
Myth #2: Chemical Peels Don’t Help with Wrinkles
Chemical peels can be used for more than just age spots and acne. As the Canadian Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery explains, they can also be useful for treating hyperpigmentation, freckles, sun-damaged skin, and “superficial lines and wrinkles, particularly around the mouth.” Chemical peels can help reduce irregularities in skin colour and texture stemming from a variety of sources.
Myth #3: Chemical Peels Are for Problem Skin
While chemical peels can definitely help with skin blemishes and other issues, they can also be used to simply give your skin a boost. They aren’t harmful–many use acids that occur naturally in fruits– and they aren’t time-consuming, so they can easily become part of a basic skincare regimen for keeping your skin looking its best. A treatment that results in smoother, more even skin can be helpful to many people, not just those who struggle with their skin.
Myth #4: Anyone Can Perform a Chemical Peel
While chemical peels are safe, they are best performed by someone with the necessary training and understanding of the process. As Patient’s Guide states, skin treatments should be performed “by or under the guidance of a board certified physician with knowledge of the skin.” So while many spas offer this service, if their employees aren’t qualified, then you may want to think twice before putting your skin in their hands.
Myth #5: Chemical Peels Are Just for Your Face
While we usually picture facial treatments when someone mentions chemical peels, this isn’t all they are good for. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, chemical peels can also be performed on the neck and hands. This is good news if you have age, sun, or acne-related damage to your neck and hands, as well as rough or scaly patches of skin, which might be more likely on your hands than your face. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons says that these conditions, as well as some scarring, can be treated using chemical peels.
We Can Improve Your Skin
Whether you are looking for a professional to treat your skin to a chemical peel or a trustworthy surgeon to help make your body the one you want, we are here to help.
Dr. Kenneth Dickie offers patients a personable approach to cutting-edge surgical and non-surgical procedures. We proudly offer plastic surgery services to Barrie, Collingwood, Sudbury, Orillia, Huntsville, Bracebridge and surrounding areas.
Fill out the form on the right to schedule a personal consultation with plastic surgeon Dr. Kenneth Dickie. Or call us at the phone number posted at the top of the page.