A lot of people rely on different skin care products in order to have smoother and younger-looking skin. Some end up performing chemical peels at home. DIY peels seem inviting, especially if you have a tight budget or you don’t have the time to head to your doctor. Then again, DIY peels come with risks; risks that you can minimize if you opt for a professional peel. Here at our Cleveland skin rejuvenation practice, chemical peels can improve skin texture and replace your dead skin layer with healthier and glowing skin. If you are thinking of doing your own chemical peel, read on and find out if it is worth the risk.
How DIY Peels Work
Chemical peels done at home are typically not as aggressive as professional peels. The solution is applied onto your skin using a facial brush or a cotton ball. Application of the solution triggers the process of peeling to reveal the healthier skin beneath. Solutions used in DIY peels are usually “light”.
Risks of At-Home Chemical Peels
Although it is a simple process, it still comes with a number or risks. They can:
- increase your skin’s sensitivity
- lead to superficial burns
- cause excessive scarring
- encourage acne breakouts
- cause moderate to severe pain
- cause infection
You can damage your own skin if you apply too much solution, you don’t follow instructions, and you do not have a neutralizer ready. You will need a neutralizer to prevent skin damage, especially if the peeling solution is too strong. Skin damage can also occur if you apply the solution on the wrong areas. Spot treatments using a cotton ball can end up in patches of discolored skin if the solution scatters.
Why Professional Peels Are Better
Chemical peels done in the doctor’s office is better than DIY peels as the entire treatment will be supervised by a medical professional. The doctor will control the strength of the solution applied during treatment to prevent any burns. With professional peels, you can get the most out of the procedure and treat fine lines and wrinkles, uneven pigmentation, blemishes, and sun-damaged skin.
You can always choose to do your own chemical peel. By doing it carefully, you can avoid committing mistakes that lead to skin damage and costly treatments later on. However, if you want to see optimal results, it is best to have it done in the office of your doctor.
Request an appointment with Dr. Totonchi today by calling 216-778-2262 to learn more about chemical peels and other non-surgical skin rejuvenation treatments. You can also fill out this online contact form to get in touch with us. We look forward to your visit!
