This is a guest posting by Michele Dalton. Anyone who knows Michele knows she is passionate about chemical peels. In this article, Michele dispels the myths and misconceptions that scare many people off from peels.

When you think of a chemical peel, what image pops into your mind?

Is it Samantha from Sex and the City, with her burnt face, scaring onlookers? Or do you imagine sheets of skin peeling from your face?

If so, you aren’t alone, but nowadays, in experienced hands, advancements in formulations and the variety of acids available on the market mean that the patient can now determine the depth of peel according to her life style and skin type.

You don’t even have to see peeling to achieve results. Today’s formulations are working at the cellular level even when there is no peeling.

Let’s take a step back and define what a chemical peel is. A chemical peel is a treatment that uses acids to break down the bonds between the skin cells, promoting the release of dead skin. This action accelerates the production of fresh new skin cells.

There are many types of acids on the market today; glycolic, lactic, salicylic, kojic, azelaic, citric, hyaluronic and trichloroacetic acid, just to name a few. Each of these acids addresses different skin issues including acne, hyperpigmentation, rosacea, sun damaged skin, aging skin or a dull complexion. Years ago patients were limited to only glycolic acid to address their skin’s issues, however today the choices are vast.

It is important for clients to have realistic expectations of what a chemical peel can do before starting a series of treatments. The first goal of a chemical peel is to accelerate the rate of cell turnover in the skin. As we age, this rate naturally slows down, which can lead to dull, lifeless-looking skin.

The second goal of a chemical peel is to contain the injury of the skin to only the desired layers. Achieving the balance between the first and second goal is very complex and difficult to accomplish and requires a fully trained and experienced technician for safety and efficacy. No matter what peel is used, a realistic expectation would be a lighter, brighter skin with an improved texture.

Usually peels are performed in a series of six but that number varies from person to person and will depend on the strength of the peel chosen and the goals of the individual. Peels can be booked anywhere from two weeks to one year apart. Generally acneic skin types can be treated every two weeks, sun-damaged skin every three weeks and aging skin once a month to once a year.

With proper consultation you should expect to be able to achieve your goals with very little disruption to your lifestyle, within your comfort level and with the support of your technician every step of the way.