Many people think of chemical peels as a skin treatment for women. However, men can also benefit from chemical peels.
A chemical peel can be a great way to improve your skin, leaving you feeling refreshed and younger. Read this guide to learn about chemical peels for men and how you can use them for great skin.
Related: A Simple Guide to Acid Peels
What is a Chemical Peel?
A chemical peel is a cosmetic treatment that can be applied to the face, neck, and hands. People (both men and women) use chemical peels to improve the feeling and appearance of their skin.
While some chemical peels are performed at medical spas, there are also at-home peels that you can safely use. The at-home treatments tend to be more affordable and convenient for many people.
What are the Types of Chemical Peels for Men?
Men have many options for chemical peels. Men can choose from:
At-Home Chemical Peels
As mentioned, at-home chemical peels are convenient, safe, and effective. Peels in medical spas can take a long time to perform and often come with significant downtime.
Plus, in-office chemical peels tend to cost hundreds of dollars. If you’re looking to save money and time, an at-home chemical peel is an excellent option. When choosing an at-home chemical peel for men, you want to make sure to pay attention to the list of ingredients. Here are some at-home chemical peel ingredients to look out for:
Glycolic Acid
One ingredient you should look for is glycolic acid. Glycolic acid can help reduce wrinkles and fine lines, improve pigmentation, reduce crow’s feet, and reduce the appearance of age spots.
Glycolic acid is also great for sensitive skin and beneficial for those who are new to at-home peels.
Pumpkin Enzyme
Pumpkin enzyme is another ingredient men should look for when purchasing at-home chemical peels. Pumpkin enzyme is a gentle ingredient that is safe on all skin types. It can correct blemishes, even out skin tone, increase hydration, restore natural radiance, and more.
Salicylic Acid
Salicyclic acid is perfect for men who are looking to fight acne. While many people associate acne with teenagers, many adults also suffer from acne. According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association, around 40 to 50 million Americans deal with acne.
If you’re suffering from acne, you’re certainly not alone. One of the best ways to deal with acne is with an at-home salicylic acid peel. Salicylic acid can help fight cystic acne, hormonal acne, adult acne, whiteheads, and blackheads. It can also help with age spots, uneven texture, pigmentation issues, sebaceous filaments, melasma, rosacea, and warts.
You can purchase salicylic acid peels in different strengths according to your needs.
Peel Pads
Peel pads are an excellent option for busy men on the go. Peel pads are convenient and easy to use, allowing you to quickly get on with your day.
They can help with everything from age spots to acne to pore refinement.
Are you wondering how fine lines differ from wrinkles? Click here to find out!
Clinical Chemical Peels
Clinical chemical peels are the primary alternative to at-home peels. If you choose to go to a clinic for your chemical peel, it’s essential to know about the different options available.
Superficial Peels
Superficial peels mildly exfoliate the skin. AHA and BHA peels are the most common types of superficial peels.
Only mild chemical agents are used for a superficial (light) chemical peel. Superficial peels are best for those dealing with dry skin, uneven skin tone, acne, and fine wrinkles. It’s typically safe to get a light chemical peel every 2 to 5 weeks.
Medium Chemical Peels
Medium chemical peels are a little stronger than light peels. During a medium chemical peel, a skin care specialist will remove the top layer of your skin (epidermis) as well as a bit of the layer underneath (dermis).
Medium peels can help with acne scars, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone. You’ll likely need several treatments to get the results you want.
Related: TCA Chemical Peel: A Guide to Benefits and Uses
Deep Chemical Peels
Deep chemical peels are usually reserved for those with serious skin issues. The middle and upper layer of the dermis and epidermis is removed during a deep chemical peel.
These peels use very strong chemicals, and you may need a local anesthetic to help deal with the discomfort. Deep chemical peels are suited for those with deep wrinkles, heavy acne scarring, and precancerous skin patches.
The effects of a deep chemical peel can last as long as ten years, so you don’t need repeat treatments. The recovery time is typically about two weeks for this type of peel.
What are the Side Effects of Chemical Peels for Men?
Men and women often experience the same side effects with chemical peels. The deeper the peel, the more side effects you can expect to experience. The most common side effects associated with chemical peels are redness, flaking, and irritation.
Some people also experience mild changes in their skin color.
How Fast Will Men See Results?
You can expect to see immediate results from your chemical peel. However, you’ll likely notice the most significant change in your skin after a few months.
We recommend taking progress photos so you can see how your skin improves over time.
Related: Benefits of Chemical Peels on the Body
Conclusion
As you can see, men can also benefit from chemical peels. You’ll notice younger, more even skin once you start incorporating chemical peels into your skincare routine.
If you’re looking to purchase at-home chemical peels, click here to view our products!