The rate of skin cell turnover slows as the body ages, leaving dead skin on the face. A buildup of dead skin creates a dull look that accentuates fine lines and wrinkles. Chemical face peels and exfoliating cleansers slough dead skin cells from the face to reveal a brighter, smoother, more youthful complexion. Take a moment to understand the difference between the two to provide your skin with the best care possible.

What You Need to Know About Chemical Face Peels & Physical Exfoliants

Physical Exfoliants

Physical exfoliants come in several types, including large and small granule options. Crushed nut and seed shell products also provide a sloughing effect. The best abrasive skin care product for you depends on your skin’s thickness and sensitivity level.

If you have oil-prone skin, for example, your sebaceous glands are larger, and your skin is thicker. You can subsequently use large granule abrasives without the risk of irritation. Smaller granule products work best if your skin is dry and sensitive, such as those with nourishing and hydrating jojoba beads. Crushed nut and seed shell products are also not recommended for sensitive skin due to irregular edges.

Use suggested exfoliating products at home as directed to keep your skin smooth and youthful. Physical exfoliants also unclog pores to prevent skin eruptions and help fade age spots and small scars. Refrain from using aggressive scrubbing tactics as the product’s texture does the sloughing for you. Apply the product with a gentle hand to prevent red, irritated bumps.

Chemical Face Peels

Chemical face peels use natural acids to dissolve the top layer of dead skin from the face, revealing a more youthful complexion free of dullness, fine lines, wrinkles, and large pores. Peels can also correct pigment irregularities and reduce facial scars — such as shallow acne scars.

Alpha hydroxy and beta hydroxy acids are among the most popular ingredients in chemical peels and are ideal for oily and acne-prone skin, respectively. Natural enzymes are also used in chemical options because they are not as harsh and therefore work well on sensitive skin.

These skin care treatments should only be performed by a licensed, experienced dermatologist who will determine your candidacy and provide the best treatment for your skin type. Redness and mild inflammation is common after a peel but goes away after a few days. Some people with certain skin conditions, such as rosacea, should not have a chemical face peel because of the severe irritation factor.

Lauren A Daman, MD, PC and her team of dermatologists provide clients throughout the Hartford, CT, area with chemical skin peels among other anti-aging treatments such as Botox®, facial fillers, and sclerotherapy. Call (860) 246-3533 today to schedule a consultation or visit the website for more about services that help you look and feel your best. Their expert chemical face peel treatment is just the first step to maintaining the best skin of your life.