Chemical Peel Myths BUSTED!

Chemical Peel Myths

Chemical peels are one of our favorite skin treatments here at Aurora! Medical-grade peels are a proven treatment for a variety of skin concerns, including improving skin texture, treating acne, fighting aging, reducing pigmentation and sun damage as well as helping to hydrate the skin. We get a lot of questions about chemical peels (I blame the word “peel”), so we wanted to take this opportunity to address many of the common myths surrounding chemical peels:

Myth 1: If you have sensitive skin, you can’t get a peel

It is often assumed that if you have sensitive skin or have skin conditions such as rosacea that you are not a candidate for chemical peels. There are several types of peels that are formulated specifically for sensitive and rosacea-prone skin. These formulas often include acids and ingredients that help to calm the inflammation associated with sensitive skin, as well as strengthen capillary walls to reduce redness and the visibility of broken capillaries. Certain sensitive skin peels can help to provide a form of lymphatic drainage to eliminate the bacteria that exists on the surface of the skin causing rosacea-related redness and irritation.

Myth 2: If you didn’t peel, it didn’t work

You don’t have to peel in order to get results. Rest easy…the peel is working and you’re still getting results! “Chemical Peel” by definition is the use of an acid or chemical solution to exfoliate and remove the top layers of dead skin. This process may or may NOT produce a peeling response. Visible peeling does not determine the efficacy of the treatment. Peeling is merely a possible side effect of a chemical. Meaning you do not need to peel heavily in order for the treatment to be effective. Many of the chemical peels now used by estheticians are formulated to create changes at the cellular level so that you can experience results without having to experience heavy peeling and downtime. The amount of peeling that a client experiences depends on the current condition of their skin and sensitivity level, as well as the strength of the peel performed. Both of these factors should be discussed prior to the treatment and the appropriate peel can be chosen based on what the client is hoping to achieve as it aligns with the aesthetician’s recommendations. Here at Aurora, we have three levels/strengths of chemical peels. The Illuminize Peel, a medical-grade chemical peel, does not induce any physical peeling but is still a highly effective treatment and Aurora client favorite.

Myth 3: One chemical peel is enough

Generally speaking, we recommend completing a series of chemical peels in order to achieve the optimal results and exceptional outcomes we desire. Most clients will do a series of four to six peels spaced about four weeks apart, although your provider will recommend a treatment plan based on your specific skin type, needs, and goals. It is critical to trust the process, have faith in your aesthetician, and stay on track with your series both to achieve those results and to maintain the progress you’ve made. It’s worth it. YOU’RE worth it.

Myth 4: They take a long time

No time? No problem! Most chemical peel appointments are under 30 minutes. The skin is cleansed and a chemical solution is applied. The specific amount of time your treatment takes will depend on the type and strength of the peel, but the procedure is not usually a lengthy one. 

If you’ve been looking for a safe, effective way to rejuvenate and refresh your skin, a chemical peel might be the complexion correction you’ve been looking for! Ditch the myths and focus on the facts when deciding whether a chemical peel is right for you. Don’t forget, consultations are always complimentary! Talk with a skin care expert to explore chemical peels and all of the treatment options available to help you find your GLOW.