If you want to refresh your skin and take advantage of anti-aging effects, a chemical peel is a fast and effective way to do it. This skin care treatment exfoliates and removes the outer layer of dead skin, revealing fresh, healthy skin with a vibrant glow underneath. There are three basic categories of chemical peels based on the strength of the effects, each with a different function.

Chemical Peel Types

1. Light Chemical Peels

Also called light duty, superficial, or lunchtime peels, this type of treatment is the fastest and simplest available. They use the least potent chemicals, and the process only takes about ten minutes. This treatment is designed to be used multiple times, and it can treat moderate cases of acne for improved skin clarity.

2. Medium Peels

This type of peel achieves its effect by removing a slightly deeper layer of skin using trichloroacetic acid. This process does cause swelling and some discomfort, so you'll need time to recover. It essentially feels like a sunburn—but after it heals, your skin's texture will be much smoother, discoloration will be reduced, and you'll look more youthful and healthy.

3. Deep Chemical Peels

A deep peel is a more aggressive procedure which is used to treat major blemishes like heavy wrinkles, scarring, and pre-cancerous growths. It requires weeks of preparation to get your skin ready. The phenol used in this treatment penetrates deep into the skin, once again causing redness and peeling as if you have a sunburn. After a few days of followup care and a few weeks of healing, this procedure tightens and smooths the skin more dramatically than lighter chemical peels.

If you're ready to try a chemical peel in Shiloh, IL, visit Arya Medical Spa. Director and nurse practitioner Kelli Blagg has over 15 years of experience and offers a range of aesthetic and skin care services to help you look and feel your best. To schedule a consultation, call (618) 624-7300, and learn more about their products and treatments online.