Does Singapore’s heat and humidity cause your skin to break out more often? Is your skin dull, or are your pores clogged? A chemical peel could be the quick and easy facial solution you need. We asked the team at Cutis Medical Laser Clinics to answer some of our readers’ questions on this popular aesthetic treatment, which promises to clear up and brighten the complexion.
What are chemical peels and how do they work?
One of the oldest cosmetic procedures in the world, the chemical peel was commonly performed in ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome to help people achieve smoother skin. Today, chemical facial peels are still popular because they offer nearly immediate results and can be performed as an outpatient procedure.
Chemical peels work by using a safe formulation of active ingredients, which is then applied on the top layer of the skin. By peeling the outer superficial layer of the skin, the treatment helps to rebuild collagen and cell growth regeneration from the deeper layers of the epidermis. Apart from smoothening purposes, chemical peels are also used to treat certain types of acne, sun-damaged skin and other skin woes.
What are the types of peels available?
At Cutis, we have three types of chemical peels that can help to restore a healthier, smoother and more radiant complexion.
#1 Cutis Anti Acne Peel
This treatment is formulated with salicylic acid, a star ingredient known for treating acne and blemishes as it can penetrate into the skin and clear out pores. The peel is a great choice for those with mild to moderate acne, as it unclogs the pores and kills acne-causing bacteria with its high yet safe concentration of salicylic acid.
#2 Cutis Crystal Peel
With lightening ingredients like glycolic, kojic and vitamin C, this safe and effective treatment can brighten up dull skin and give it a youthful glow. Suitable for those with sensitive skin, the crystal peel is often used to lighten freckles, age spots, pregnancy marks, pigmentation, uneven skin tone and discoloration conditions on both the face and body.
#3 VI Peel
For something stronger, go for the VI Peel, a medical-grade chemical peel that’s specially formulated in the United States. Currently, Cutis is the only clinic in Singapore offering this treatment. VI Peel is designed to improve the skin tone, texture and clarity of the skin; clear acne skin conditions; reduce or eliminate acne scars and sun damage; and stimulate the production of collagen, for firmer, more youthful skin. Within three days of the treatment, your skin will start to peel, and this process may last at least five to seven days. Once the peeling is complete, you will notice that your skin is healthier, smoother and more radiant.
How long does each treatment take?
Each chemical peel treatment may last for at least one hour.
Is it painful?
Most of our patients report that our chemical peels are very tolerable. However, for VI Peel, slight stinging and tingling sensations may last up to a few days after the procedure.
How many sessions do I need before seeing results?
At least three to five sessions is best to see and maintain full results.
How often can I get a chemical peel?
A chemical peel treatment can be done once every three to four weeks depending on the severity of your skin condition, as well as your skin’s healing time. The number of chemical peel sessions will also depend on your goals and what you want to achieve.
How should I care for my skin after a peel?
Avoid visiting a sauna, hot tub or steam room for at least 72 hours post-peel. The skin may be more sensitive to the sun after the peel, so you should limit your sun exposure, apply sunscreen and wear a hat when you’re outdoors. We also provide our patients with a post-peel kit, which includes a post-peel cream and hydrocortisone for application on the area to relieve any discomfort during the peeling stage. When the skin starts to peel, avoid picking or peeling off the scabs as it may cause pigmentation. Use a gentle cleanser to gently slough off the peeled skin without causing any aggravation. Also, do not to use any form of scrub to aid in the exfoliation process, but instead, let the skin fall out on its own.
Written in collaboration with:
Cutis Medical Laser Clinics
#08-07 Pacific Plaza, 9 Scotts Road
6801 4000 | cutislaserclinics.com
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