‘Peeling’ Away Insecurity: An Analysis of Chemical Peels
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As my Snapchat memories popped up from five years ago, I proceeded to judge my thirteen-year-old self. I couldn’t help but notice all the breakouts on my forehead. I began to reflect on a time when I would use too much fragrance and not enough hydration, a story that early teens know all too well. Coincidentally, my best friend texted me just a moment later, ranting about her dermatology appointment and her latest venture to get rid of her acne scars; mementos of her past insecurities. As I looked into my mirror, I was grateful to see that my now somewhat flawless skin is flourishing. But as I looked closer in the mirror, those dark spots of past picking stared back at me, dragging me into a hole of self-doubt.
I checked my phone again and my friend texted me paragraphs about using chemical peels as a solution for scarring. I immediately texted my esthetician and thus began my investigation of chemical peels.
Image Courtesy: Peachtree Dermatology
After an in-depth conversation with my esthetician, she gave me three tips to keep in mind when it comes to not only chemical peels but your skincare in general.
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Prep the Skin Before Anything
One of the biggest mistakes that people make when it comes to chemical peels and other skin treatments is attempting to treat the skin while it is still in an active breakout. With acne scarring especially, the most vital component of treatment is implementing a regime that reduces oiliness and bacteria.
For all skin types, you start with a cleanser. This can be anything from micellar water to a prescription face wash. Regardless of skin type, a general rule is that the fewer ingredients, the better. Then moisturize, moisturize, moisturize! The second mistake for many acne-prone individuals includes drying out their skin. All skin types need hydration, so show your skin some love with ample moisturizer. The last component to add to your pretreatment prep is retinol, a serum that’s rich with Vitamin A, which reduces scars and shrinks pores. Consider adding this retinol serum from The Ordinary to your skincare routine. Once you have your skin in homeostasis, you’re ready for your peel!
Do Both Professional and At-Home Treatments
The debate surrounding which treatments are superior continues, especially in the world of coronavirus, as many people try to find at-home alternatives for going to the spa. Aside from the skincare routine above, leave the heavy-duty treatments like chemical peels to the professionals. My esthetician recommends doing peels every three to four months and to continue this at-home regime to prolong the life of your peels. These professional peels, like the one photographed below, are a layered chemical peel, crafted by the Pro, mixing all sorts of ailments and outcomes. The changes may be subtle and may seem expensive but these treatments can save you time, money, and heartache in the long run.
Image Courtesy: My Esthetician
Be Informed and Love Your Skin
This last tip is just a reminder to not only research anything you put on your skin, know the source and make sure it’s healthy, but also to love the skin you're in! With modern day beauty standards, people assume that having flawless skin is the norm. I have fallen for the ruse of covering up blemishes and dabbing away dark spots in the past. But as I looked in the mirror after finding out more about chemical peels and other spa treatments, I realized my skin is the canvas of all the life I’ve lived and experiences I’ve been through. Don’t get me wrong, I feel confident in my skin and I want you to feel the same. Taking care of oneself should come from a place of self-love, not self-loathing. Your skin is beautiful! It’s important to take care of it. And remember, skincare should always be about longevity, not vanity.
Strike Out,
Caitlin Downing
Athens