Let's say you're in more of a rush to revitalize your skin. You're dealing with brown discoloration, dullness, and maybe some fine lines, and you're ready to commit to a bit of downtime. In this case, a medium-depth chemical peel is the way to go.
The most common type is a 35% TCA peel, with the Jenner's peel, being a popular combination.
With these peels, you're penetrating deeper into the skin, reaching the upper portion of the dermis, (compared to superficial peels that primarily affect the epidermis).
Medium peels target more pronounced issues like pigmentation irregularities from sun damage, more moderate signs of aging like deeper wrinkles, and promote skin renewal and improvement of overall texture including reduction of acne scars.
Due to the depth of these peels, they tend to be more painful, and therefore requires some level of oral or IV sedation. When the chemical agent is applied to the face, the initial application will trigger a reaction and your skin will reach a point called "frosting," which is a coagulation of the skin's proteins, and this is what's actually removing the epidermis and part of the dermis, which is the painful part of the procedure. Whoever is performing the peels needs to be able to observe and assess the skin's response and make adjustments carefully. It's crucial to recognize the skill and experience required to perform these peels. Precision is key, and choosing a professional to administer them is necessary.
During these medium peels, the top layer of your skin is dying, which will cause it to peel off and heal so that the newer skin can emerge. This skin will be fresh, with less pigment and fewer fine lines. It looks bright and luminescent because it's essentially a brand new epidermis.
There's an element of artistry and experience involved in this process. Going too deep can lead to unintended consequences, such as scarring, especially in delicate areas.
Unlike superficial peels, which pose minimal risk, medium-depth peels require careful consideration and require a longer downtime, lasting 7 to 10 days. During this time, you're not leaving the house. You need to be taking care of your face and washing 2-3 times a day, applying soothing balms and ointments, and need to follow specific pre and post care instructions so you heal properly and don't risk damaging your skin.
Be prepared for your skin to change colors, flake off, and peel in sheets, and keep in mind that it's a trade-off: enduring a week or so of looking like a shedding snake, in exchange for long-term benefits.
While the process may seem daunting, the outcome is often radiant, rejuvenated skin, and results can be truly transformative.
This type of peel strikes an excellent balance between effectiveness and efficiency, making it a popular choice among surgeons and individuals seeking noticeable results without excessive downtime.
1 comment
Miriam Sanchez
Would a chemical peel help resolve my condition? I have milia on my face, all over. May I please hear from you. Thank you.
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KaramMD Skin replied:
Hi Miriam—When it comes to something like a chemical peel, it’s best to consult with a dermatologist or skincare professional to determine the most suitable treatment for your condition. They can provide personalized advice and ensure the treatment is safe and effective for you. In the meantime, I would also suggest using a mild exfoliating product like Polish to help remove dead skin cells, using a Retinol-based product, like Illuminate which contains many powerful ingredinets to help speed up skin cell turnover, and make sure you are using non-comedogenic products, like all of the KaramMD products, inclduing Enrich, to prevent further clogging of pores. I hope that helps! >
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