Exfoliating is necessary for every skincare routine to eliminate dead skin cells and bring new ones to the surface. Over-the-counter products are generally safe for home use but may not be as effective as in-office chemical peels.
Chemical peels combine multiple exfoliating acids to target your main skin concerns and create a youthful appearance. The primary purpose of chemical peels is to target signs of aging, scarring, acne, or discoloration on the face or body.
The eye area is thin and delicate, but it can also display prominent textural concerns. Eye peels are increasing in popularity thanks to their ability to eliminate dark circles or wrinkles. However, they also require extra care before and after your service.
What are under-eye chemical peels? Under-eye chemical peels share similarities with regular chemical peels, except they target the eye area. They also combine multiple exfoliating acids to brighten the skin for a youthful result.
Under-eye chemical peels may sound extreme, but they can help turn back the clock. It’s crucial to seek advice from a trusted dermatologist that can guide you through your eye peel journey. What else should you know about under-eye chemical peels?
What Is An Under Eye Chemical Peel?
An under-eye chemical peel usually involves applying a solution to the skin with multiple exfoliating acids. These acids are designed to eliminate dead skin cells, promote cell renewal, and reveal a brighter, more even complexion.
Eye peels can have a mix of different exfoliators to help target a specific concern. Some common acids used for under-eye peels include Lactic acid and Trichloroacetic Acid. Both acids are ideal for boosting collagen production or evening skin tones.
Trichloroacetic Acid, or TCA peels can be used under the eye or other areas of the face/body. Consult with a dermatologist to find the best under-eye peel for your needs.
What Is A TCA Peel?
TCA peels are one of the many chemical peels that can be used under the eyes. It promotes cell turnover and brings newer cells to the surface. However, all chemical peels can vary in strength and concentration, affecting your eye peel results.
Healthline states, “A TCA peel is a noninvasive skin treatment used to treat skin discolorations, scarring, and wrinkles…TCA peels are considered medium strength, meaning that should only be applied by a certified skin care professional.”
Common under-eye concerns include dark circles, fine lines, wrinkles, and more that can all benefit from an eye peel.
Benefits Of An Eye Peel
Under-eye chemical peels can offer a wide range of benefits. Chemical peels are less invasive and require less downtime than other procedures like laser or surgery. Also, you’re more likely to see results sooner than an otc chemical exfoliant.
Some expected benefits that an eye peel offers include reducing signs of aging, eliminating discoloration, and creating an overall even complexion.
Increases Cell Renewal
All chemical peels are designed to increase cell renewal. Peels exfoliate the top layer of our skin to bring new cells to the surface. Eliminating dead skin cells is crucial to minimize the appearance of common skin care concerns like discoloration.
Increased cell renewal will promote a more youthful appearance, but it’s essential to care for your skin post-peel to maintain your results. Peels don’t last forever, and you may need more than one session depending on the type of peel used.
Reduces Signs Of Aging
Chemical peels include light, medium, and deep variations. Light peels usually focus on the surface layer, while medium and deep peels go deeper into the skin. We’ve mentioned a standard eye peel, TCA, is a medium peel that can target aging.
Under-eye peels can eliminate crow’s feet, fine lines, and other texture concerns. Increased cell renewal will impact signs of aging and can reduce the appearance of these under eye concerns.
Eliminates Scarring And Discoloration
Dark circles, hyperpigmentation, and scarring can all be present around the eyes. Some concerns are due to genetics, but others are potentially easier to treat. The skin around our eyes is pretty delicate, and discoloration can look more prominent.
Under-eye chemical peels can eliminate discoloration and minimize the appearance of scarring. By exfoliating the top layer of the skin, eye peels can bring forth new cells that create an even skin tone.
Under-eye chemical peels are ideal for brightening and smoothing the eye area. It may be more effective than using anti-aging eye creams or caffeine serums.
Allows For Better Product Absorption
Dead skin cells can quickly trap unwanted debris on the skin. Also, dead skin cells can pose a barrier to your skincare products. Exfoliating the top layer of skin, especially under the eyes, will help promote a smooth surface for other products.
Any serums or creams will be able to penetrate the skin quicker and more evenly after an eye peel. Better product absorption can possibly allow you to enjoy skincare results sooner than expected.
Fresh And Brightened Appearance
Under-eye chemical peels can target multiple concerns at once, depending on the concentration or types of acid used. Eye peels can reduce the appearance of dark circles, fine lines, wrinkles, and scarring effortlessly.
You may notice that the skin all-around has a brightened and more even appearance. Eliminating these common eye care concerns will create a youthful and glowing complexion.
New skin cells will eventually reach the skin’s surface and conducting a religious skincare routine will help you maintain this fresh-faced finish.
How Does An Under Eye Chemical Peel Work?
Now that we’ve covered the benefits of an under-eye chemical peel, how do they work their magic? First, it’s crucial to note that each skin care clinic’s procedure may vary, and any chemical peel should be tailored to fit your skin’s characteristics.
A general eye peel may include skin prep and applying the peel to the under-eye area. Next, your clinic or provider can neutralize the skin so the peel can stop working after a certain amount of time has passed.
At the end of your service, your provider may apply serums, creams, or even SPF to soothe the skin. Eye peels can last for about 30-60 minutes, but they can also vary by the clinic, so it’s best to discuss concerns with your provider over a consultation.
Overall, a chemical peel will eliminate the skin’s surface layer to promote new cell growth, which creates a new layer of skin.
What To Expect From An Under Eye Peel
Chemical peels can be intimidating, and under-eye peels can cause more concern. The skin around the eye is thin and vulnerable, and a chemical solution is applied closely.
Your provider will recommend preparing for an under-eye peel a week or two before the service. Eye peels also involve carrying out a religious aftercare routine. So, what can you expect from your under-eye peel?
Focus On Skin Prep Before Your Peel
Chemical peels are not typically a service you perform on a whim. It can take a few weeks to prepare your skin for any type of chemical peel. Taking this time is crucial because you want the eye area to heal without issues.
You and your provider may discuss the steps needed to prepare for an eye peel. Some general guidelines include ceasing the use of chemical exfoliants and retinoids in your routine at least a few days to a week before your service.
This is to avoid an adverse reaction or damaging the eye area.
Slight Burning Or Stinging
Under-eye peels are designed to dissolve the top layer of skin. Peels are typically made of various exfoliating acids that may feel uncomfortable once applied to the skin. So, it’s normal to feel a slight tingling or burning sensation.
These burning or stinging sensations are only temporary and tolerable for a short amount of time during the service. Peels might sit on the skin for a few minutes before neutralizing them with another solution.
Consult with your provider about any concerns regarding your eye peel.
Aftercare Routine
Your under-eye chemical peel results won’t magically appear by themselves.
Chemical peels require a religious aftercare routine if you’re looking to see your actual results. Your provider should instruct how to care for your under-eye area following your service.
Some general guidelines include applying and reapplying SPF. Without sunscreen, your skin may have a more challenging time healing, and it can trigger your initial skin concerns like wrinkles or discoloration thanks to the UV rays.
Side Effects Of An Eye Peel
All beauty services have their risks, including under-eye chemical peels. Not everyone will be a great candidate for eye peels, so it’s another crucial point to discuss with your provider.
Eye peels can have side effects like little downtime, redness, and peeling. The eye area may be prone to scarring or discoloration in extreme cases. It’s essential to be aware of potential side effects to understand all components of an eye peel.
Downtime
Under-eye peels may require some downtime. You will be able to conduct your normal daily activities, but your skin may feel extra vulnerable. It’s essential to apply SPF to the eye area to protect it from the sun’s rays.
You may notice your eyes look red or dry in the first one to two days following your procedure. Skin peeling may last for a few days longer. Everyone will heal from an under-eye chemical peel differently.
Redness
Redness is another common side effect that can occur post-peel. We’ve mentioned earlier that an under-eye chemical peel may sting or tingle while it’s on the skin. So, it’s natural that the stinging sensation will leave behind some redness.
Redness can last a few days following your service. One way to soothe or reduce redness is by applying sunscreen or following any other aftercare instructions. Tenderness and redness will usually fade away quickly in most cases.
Dryness/Peeling
It’s normal for dryness and peeling to occur after a chemical peel. It can also appear around the eyes following an eye peel. You’ll want to avoid picking at dryness because it can affect your overall results. So, let the skin shed on its own.
Dryness and peeling can last a few days or a week after an under-eye peel. It’s usual to shed this skin to make way for new skin cells that create a youthful result. Ask your provider what you can do to soothe peeling or dry skin.
When Will You See Results?
Various factors can determine your results and when they arise. Requiring multiple sessions or a longer recovery can affect your healing timeline. You may notice a slight difference in your eyes once redness and skin peeling have disappeared.
Your aftercare routine will also help develop the results you desire to see. Chemical peels stimulate cell renewal, so you can see an improvement in your under-eyes a few weeks after your service or once you complete multiple treatments.
Chemical peel results can usually last a few months or longer, depending on the type of peel used and your aftercare routine.
How Often Should You Get An Under Eye Chemical Peel?
Your under-eye chemical peel may be a light or medium peel. Light peels can be applied every couple of weeks or months if your desired effect hasn’t been reached. Medium peels may be used only once or need a longer cool-down time.
You can discuss with your provider if you’re a good candidate for multiple under-eye chemical peels. During this consultation, you can figure out how often you can get an eye peel. Everyone’s experience will vary regarding under-eye chemical peels.
Who Should Avoid Under Eye Chemical Peels?
Not everyone will be a great candidate for an under-eye chemical peel. Therefore, it’s crucial to discuss with your doctor previous medical history, current skin conditions, or even lifestyle to determine if you can benefit from an under-eye chemical peel.
According to Healthline, “the ideal candidate for a TCA peel is not breastfeeding or pregnant, does not have a skin condition such as psoriasis, eczema, or rosacea, does not have a job that requires them to be outside,” and more.
How Much Does An Eye Peel Cost?
Under-eye chemical peels may be an investment. The price of an eye peel can vary significantly by state, provider, or clinic. Also, how often you need an eye peel can rack up the total. Eye peels may not be an accessible service, but it can be worth the price.
On average, an under eye chemical peel can cost a few hundred dollars. More luxurious clinics may charge up to a thousand. It’s crucial to conduct extensive research and work with a trusted and experienced chemical peel provider.
When To Consult A Dermatologist
Consult a dermatologist if you’re unsure where to start your chemical peel journey. This skin care professional can guide you to the right providers, or recommended treatments they believe will benefit your skin better.
The Takeaway
Under-eye chemical peels share many similarities with ordinary peels, except they are placed under the eyes. As a result, they can target significant skin care concerns like dark circles, crow’s feet, scarring, and more.
Eye peels will increase cell renewal and create a more radiant, youthful finish. It does have side effects like redness and, in extreme cases, scarring. Under-eye chemical peels need time to show accurate results, and religious SPF application is necessary.
Follow your providers’ guidelines to achieve a successful under-eye chemical peel service. They can determine what type of eye peel to use or how frequently you’ll need treatment.
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