Collectively, women pay an enormous amount of money a year on beauty – and men are starting to follow suit. This isn’t really a ground-breaking concept, but the ways in which they are doing it is certainly changing. No longer are potions, gels and toners enough to keep skin looking as young and healthy as we’d like and can explain why plastic surgery has been on the rise for a number of years now.
But, with tightening purse strings, women are more likely to be turning to less-invasive (not to mention less expensive) cosmetic procedures to look their very best. This is echoed by statistics showing that Britons spend approximately £2.3 billion a year on cosmetic treatments which include chemical peels as well as Botox and laser treatments, according to the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons.
In the summer months, when make-up is toned down and fresh faces are unleashed, a chemical peel may be an option for those wanting that glowing skin. There isn’t as much of a stigma associated with chemical peels as there once was, but some may still approach with caution. And rightfully so.
We are all familiar with the Sex and the City episode in which Samantha Jones hides her swollen peeling face after impulse-purchasing the procedure. For those not familiar with chemical peels, this is because is essentially an acid treatment.
A chemical peel is a beauty treatment to remove the top layer of dead skin cells on the face, exposing a smoother and less wrinkled layer of skin underneath. The intensity of the chemical peel (light, medium or deep peel) will determine the strength of the acid solution that is used.
The concept of a peeling face may not be that dissimilar to a horror movie but chemical peels are so safe and speedy that they have been nicknamed a “lunchtime procedure”.
Luckily, the risks are to a minimum, but as the skin starts to peel, there is of course risk of infection if not treated appropriately. But, these kinds of situations are easily avoided, by going to the correct people.
Remember, a chemical peel is not the same as getting a manicure and although it is a cosmetic procedure, it is unlikely that a beauty therapist is adequately trained to perform a peel.
In fact, a chemical peel should only ever be administered by a dermatological professional, to ensure that you are adequately looked after.
If you want to avoid the “Samantha” look, allow time to heal and go to a professional. Skin heals on its own time frame and beauty comes with patience. Enjoy your new summer skin!
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