The Complete Guide to Getting a Chemical Peel for Sensitive Skin Types

Benefits of chemical peels

First of all, what can a chemical peel do for your skin? Here are three skincare benefits of chemical peels: 

1. Reduce visible signs of aging. According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), chemical peels are used to address various visible signs of aging, including age spots, dull skin, fine lines and wrinkles. 

2. Fighting pimples. Chemical peels may not be the first treatment for acne—spot treatments and even retinoids are usually used first, but the AAD calls them an effective way to deal with certain types of acne.

3. Minimize the appearance of discoloration. If your skin has a patchy and uneven tone, is marked by unwanted freckles, or is covered in dark spots, chemical peels can help. Dr. Bhanusali reports that chemical peels can help improve hyperpigmentation, while the AAD identifies freckles and melasma as skin problems that peels can also address.    

4. Improve skin texture. Chemical peels are not meant to change the look of your face, they can also positively affect the way your skin looks. Because chemical peels exfoliate the outer layers of the skin, they can also help improve texture, Dr. Bhanusali noted. In addition, the AAD lists rough skin as a problem that exfoliation can solve.

Can people with sensitive skin do chemical peels?

Good news: Dr. Bhanusali isn't saying that people with sensitive skin should avoid chemical peels entirely. With the right precautions, people with sensitive skin can reap the benefits too. For sensitive skin, Dr. Bhanusali says it's important to see an experienced professional who understands the nuances of different skin types. Once you've found a dermatologist, Dr. Bhanusali shares that it's best to start with less intense peels and gradually increase the number of peels. 

However, it should be noted that even the most gentle peeling can lead to adverse effects. According to the National Institute for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), superficial peels - the least serious type - are very safe when done correctly, but can cause skin sensitivity, inflammatory hyperpigmentation and itching, among other side effects. In case of sensitive skin type NCBIrecommends a gel-based peel.

Is there an alternative to chemical peels?

Although people with sensitive skin can sometimes cope with chemical peels, peels are not for everyone. In some cases, Dr. Bhanusali may recommend a laser instead, especially if a chemical peel does not help the patient. For those with skin that is too sensitive to exfoliate, Dr. Bhanusali often suggests using a retinoid or retinol instead. Chemical peels are pretty unique and hard to replicate, but Dr. Bhanusali says that retinoids and retinol are "almost like a superficial chemical peel in a topical form."

Before incorporating one of these popular ingredients into your sensitive skin routine, it's important to know that the formulas they come in are usually very potent and can cause dryness and irritation. To minimize any negative reactions, use a moisturizing formula containing retinol. L'Oréal Paris RevitaLift CicaCream Moisturizing Face Cream perfect for a first introduction to retinol products, especially if you have sensitive skin. Moisturizing, anti-aging formula that contains pro-retinol- gentle on sensitive skin, but at the same time helps to fight the signs of aging by fighting wrinkles and firming the skin.