Is a Chemical Peel Safe for Sensitive Skin?

A chemical peel is a wonderful treatment for many skin-improvement needs. From anti-aging to treating acne scars, this non-surgical procedure is an excellent option for all ages. However, as the name suggests, it does require the use of carefully selected chemicals, making many people wonder if it’s safe for sensitive skin.

In a word, yes, a chemical peel can be used on those who have overly sensitive skin. But this is with some provisos.

So if you regularly break out at even a sniff of a substance that your skin doesn’t like—but are keen to undergo a chemical peel treatment—read on to discover the steps to take to ensure the beautiful results you deserve.

Chemical Peel and Sensitive Skin: What you need to know

• What is a chemical peel?
• What is defined as sensitive skin?

What is a chemical peel?

A chemical peel involves the application of a solution that contains a mix of various chemicals that cause a mild, controlled injury to the upper layers of the skin. This gently detaches the cells from the surface, allowing the clinician to peel it away to reveal the beautiful new layer of skin beneath.

The chemicals involved include

• Salicylic acid
• Lactic or carbolic acid
• Glycolic acid
• Trichloroacetic acid

While this might sound quite an extreme procedure, it’s important to remember that these products have undergone extensive research and are highly regulated. This ensures their safety for use on humans.

There are many different types of peels. They can be mild, medium, or deep, and this terminology refers to the level of skin that’s penetrated and how much of the upper layer will be removed.

What is defined as sensitive skin?

Sensitive skin is somewhat of a lay term rather than a defined condition. It means having a reduced tolerance to various substances. These might include those typically found in cosmetics, washing products, and others used for personal care.

Signs and symptoms occur when you come into contact with the substance/s that affect you and can include: 

• Redness
• Dryness
• Peeling
• Hives
• Bumps
• Itching 
• Burning
• Stinging

It’s estimated that up to 50% of people suffer from a mild form of skin sensitivity.

If the condition is severe, then you might suffer from what’s known as “contact dermatitis”. This is a recognized condition that will be diagnosed by a medical professional. Having contact dermatitis doesn’t exclude you from benefiting from a chemical peel. Just be sure to inform the technician of the condition.

How to Ensure a Successful Chemical Peel on Sensitive Skin

• Sensitive skin? Select your provider with care
• Chemical peel prep: Ask these probing questions

Sensitive skin? Select your provider with care

The key to having a chemical peel if you have sensitive skin is to seek a provider who has a great track record in this area. They should be happy to speak to you about the treatments they offer, listen to what you tell them about your condition, take on board your concerns, and advise on the best course of treatment for you.

Chemical peel prep? Ask these probing questions

A good provider will probably answer many of the following questions before you ask them. However, to be sure that you’re making the right choice, make sure all of the following are covered:

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Do you have experience in applying chemical peels to sensitive skin?

How will you tailor the treatment to my needs?

Do I have any medical conditions that are contraindications to having a chemical peel?

What post-treatment care should I carry out considering my sensitivity?

The answers should be wholly satisfactory. If you’re at all unclear about their expertise or considerations for your skin condition, then it’s probably time to seek an alternative provider.

Contact the Experts Today: Bayou City Leads the Way with Chemical Peels for Sensitive Skin

At Bayou City, we have many options available for those with all levels of sensitive skin. Your highly-qualified dermatologist will first determine the level of your skin sensitivity, before recommending the best bespoke treatment that suits.

Such tailored treatment is just one reason our valued customers fall in love with our methods. That, and the touchable, soft, and gorgeous results, of course.

Discover more about our range of chemical peel options at https://www.bayoucitydermatology.com/cosmetic/chemical-peels and get in touch to book your consultation.