What Is the Lunchtime Facial?
Anyone in search of younger, fresher, more vibrant skin is probably also aware of how much time and effort certain dermatological procedures can take. If you’re someone who’s concerned about wrinkles, acne scars, and dark spots but your time is limited, you might consider getting a chemical peel. This cosmetic wrinkle reducing treatment is needle-free and often referred to as the “lunchtime facial” because of how quick and convenient it is.
What to Know About Lunchtime Facials
What Is a Chemical Peel?
If you’re concerned about your skin looking dull or showing signs of age but you don’t want to get injectables or facelifts, getting a chemical peel facial treatment is a great first step. Chemical peels effectively reduce acne scars, remove freckles and dark spots, and minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, especially when received every six to eight weeks.
Chemical peels are superficial cosmetic treatments, meaning that they’re totally non-invasive and take place on the surface of the skin. Typically, when people get a chemical peel treatment, they’re surprised at how much brighter their skin looks within a couple of days. Chemical peels act as chemical exfoliants, which not only leaves skin smoother and cleaner but can help stimulate collagen production, giving skin’s overall firmness a boost as well.
This particular treatment works by removing the topmost layer of dead skin cells, where dirt, oil, sweat, and debris can collect. Once the clinician cleanses the skin, he or she applies a special chemical solution that remains on for somewhere between 15 and 20 minutes. The solution works to slough off the dead and dull skin, and once removed, it reveals the fresh skin below.
Types and Depths of Chemical Peels
Since there are many different types of skin and skin concerns, there are also different types of chemical peels to choose from. Working with a dermatologist to find the right fit for you is always the ideal route. Dermatology specialists will be able to make appropriate recommendations and suggested timelines between treatments.
Light depth peels might include glycolic acid peels or SkinMedica Illuminize peels. These treatments are commonly used on very mild skin imperfections, like minor discoloration. Strong depth chemical peels like SkinMedica Vitalize Peel and Rejuvenize Peel are more thorough wrinkle reducing treatments. They use higher concentrations of salicylic acid, lactic acid, and retinol to diminish the appearance of creases and fine lines on the face. These are often what people think of when they think of a chemical peel, since they leave the skin “shedding” over the course of 5-7 days post-treatment.
Chemical Peels and Safety
Chemical peel facial treatments are FDA-approved, making them a very safe option. It’s also important to note that due to potential chemical interactions, patients should always stop using any retinol products or taking prescription retinoids at least five days prior to a chemical peel. They should also avoid exfoliating during this time in order to minimize potential irritation.
Contact Vanguard Dermatology
If you want to give a chemical peel a try and you’re located in the greater New York City area, contact Vanguard Dermatology today for an appointment with one of our board-certified specialists. We can assess your concerns, make the appropriate recommendations, and perform the treatment in our office.