At one point or another, we all find ourselves looking in the mirror and finding minor aesthetic issues on our faces. If you’ve noticed mild facial pigmentation issues, acne, skin dryness, or fine lines and wrinkles, a light chemical peel treatment may be right for you.

What Is a Light Chemical Peel?

Patients in the Santa Fe and Albuquerque areas frequently come in for light chemical peels. This peel uses a chemical solution to remove the epidermis – the outer layer of the skin – resulting in fresh unblemished skin with a healthy glow. Usually chemical agents like combinations of alphahydroxy acids (AHA) and beta hydroxy acids are used. Mild trichloroacetic acid (TCA) peels are also commonly used.

• AHA Peels: These are the most commonly used peels. Peels with glycolic acid, lactic acid, and salicylic acid are all AHA peels. With just a single treatment, you can see the freshness and feel the difference. Repeated treatments of AHA peels can also make your skin healthier. It can improve the texture of your skin and is a great treatment for signs of aging and skin damage due to exposure to the sun.

• Mild TCA Peels: These are used when there are pigmentation issues, skin blemishes, and wrinkles. They are ideal for spot peeling, since they don’t have adverse effects on sensitive areas like around the eyes and mouth. Those with darker complexions can opt for this type of peel. Mild TCA peels can be used frequently.

What Is the Procedure Like?

The procedure is quite simple. First, your face is cleansed. The peel is then applied to your face. After a few minutes, it is removed and washed off. This exfoliates the dead skin on the outer layers, revealing a new skin layer with better texture and color.

No anesthetic is required for the treatment. During application, all you feel is a tingling or slight stinging sensation. You can immediately get back to your normal routine after the treatment.

Usually, for light chemical peels, you are allowed to use makeup immediately or the next day at the latest. However, you must consult with Dr. Lam regarding application of makeup.

To enhance the effects of the peel, you might be asked to use other products at home to complement the treatment.

Are You a Good Candidate?

Any form of chemical peel, even a light peel, is not advisable if:

• The skin has abnormal issues of scarring
• The skin develops pigmentation due to scars
• Treatment for acne has happened within the last year
• The skin is very sensitive

Mild chemical peel treatment is ideal for early signs of aging, mild pigmentation, and acne issues. Patients with lighter skin tones who do not smoke are ideal candidates. You can see the effects of the treatment almost immediately and can go on with your normal life.

The chemical peel is the one of the oldest cosmetic procedures in the world, dating back to ancient Egypt and Greece. It is still one of the most commonly used methods of dealing with basic skin issues. Afterwards, patients look and feel younger, and their skin feels softer and fresher within minutes of the treatment.

Make an Appointment to Learn More

Would you like to find out more about the light chemical peel in Santa Fe and Albuquerque? Then speak with Dr. Nicholas Lam, an experienced physician, during a consultation at our office. To schedule your consultation, contact us today.