Best Peels for Aging Skin

Facial peels for aging skin have become a cornerstone in anti-aging skincare, offering a powerful means to rejuvenate aging skin by exfoliating the outer layers, thereby stimulating the production of new skin cells and collagen. This blog delves into what I tell my patients about the best facial peels for aging skin, exploring how they work, the types available, their key ingredients, and options for at-home treatments.

Antiaging Peels to Revitalize Aging Skin

Facial peels, a cornerstone in anti-aging skincare, harness the power of exfoliation to remove dead skin cells, paving the way for the regeneration of new cells and restoration of skin collagen. Collagen, a crucial protein for young looking skin, provides structure and strength, which are vital for maintaining a youthful appearance. As we age, collagen production diminishes while breakdown increases, leading to the formation of wrinkles and fine lines. Peels not only stimulate collagen synthesis but also aid in diminishing age spots, resulting in smoother, firmer, and more radiant skin. If you want to have glass skin, peels are a good option to make skin glow. But are they safe? I will discuss what types of peels there are because the benefits, side effects, and safety profile all depends upon what type of peel it is.

Face Peels at Home

While in-office peels offer more dramatic results, there are safe and effective options for at-home use, primarily mid to low pH peels. Home peels, typically formulated with glycolic or lactic acid, come in various forms such as pads, liquids, creams, or masks. It’s essential to follow product instructions carefully to avoid overexfoliation and potential skin damage. Here are some of the best antiaging peels to use at home.

[[T39]]

Types of Peels

The definition of a peel is a method of exfoliation designed to remove the outermost layers of the skin called the stratum corneum. Peeling skin reveals the fresher, younger-looking skin beneath. The skin naturally sheds the outer layer in a process called desquamation, but sometimes it needs exfoliators to help with this process. Peels are one type of exfoliant used to treat aging skin. There are several types of peels that can be used to improve wrinkles and the texture of the skin.

Chemical Peels

Chemical peels utilize specific acidic solutions with a low pH to remove dead skin cells. They range from mild formulas that target the superficial layer of the skin to more potent peels that can reach deeper layers, making them highly effective in treating signs of aging. The mid strength ad deep chemical peels are used as treatments in doctor’s offices, while the mild peel scan be used at home.

Chemical Peel Ingredients

The efficacy of a chemical peel largely depends on its active ingredients, each offering unique benefits for aging skin.

TCA (Trichloroacetic Acid): Ideal for medium-depth peeling, TCA can address moderate wrinkles, texture issues, and pigment irregularities. T his should only by used by trained doctors as it is very dangerous.

Glycolic Acid: A type of alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) known for its small molecule size, allowing deep penetration. It’s effective in stimulating collagen and exfoliating the skin.

Lactic Acid: Derived from milk, lactic acid is gentler than glycolic acid and hydrates the skin while improving texture and pigmentation.

Salicylic Acid: A beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that penetrates deeply into pores, making it effective for age-related skin concerns and sun damage.

Azelaic Acid: Known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, azelaic acid is effective in treating rosacea, hyperpigmentation, and improving overall skin texture.

What are enzyme peels

Enzyme Peels

Enzyme peels offer a gentler alternative to chemical peels. An enzyme is a type of protein that speeds up chemical reactions in the body. They can be used to dissolve attachments between skin cells forcing them to “let go of each other” so they can leave the skin’s surface. Fruits are often used as exfoliants because they contain enzymes and acids that can exfoliate or remove dead skin cells. Using fruit enzymes on the skin can make it look fresher and younger.

Papaya contains an enzyme called papain that gently exfoliates the skin. Papaya enzymes can make the skin smoother and brighter.

Pumpkin contains an enzyme called pumpkin enzyme that also exfoliates dead skin cells. Pumpkin enzymes reveal newer and younger looking skin.

Pineapple contains an enzyme called bromelain that removes dead skin cells. This leaves skin looking rejuvenated.

Enzymes provide gentle exfoliation without harsh scrubbing. Removing the top layer of dead skin cells allows newer cells to rise to the surface. The skin appears refreshed and vibrant as a result. Enzymes are gentle enough for daily use. Side effects are mild like temporary redness, stinging, or allergic reactions. When used properly, fruit enzymes like papain, pumpkin enzyme, and bromelain can improve skin tone and texture for a more youthful appearance.

Mechanical Exfoliation

Mechanical exfoliation methods like microdermabrasion, dermaplaning, and exfoliating scrubs physically remove dead skin cells through abrasion. Microdermabrasion uses fine crystals or a diamond tip, while dermaplaning employs a scalpel to scrape off dead skin and vellus hair. Although microdermabrasion and dermaplaning are not usually called “peels” they serve a similar function in increasing exfoliation of the skin.

Retinol Peels

Retinoids are a class of compounds derived from vitamin A, such as the popular ingredient retinol. Retinoids work to exfoliate and peel the skin by increasing cell turnover. (4) They stimulate skin cell renewal and the shedding of old, dead skin cells, revealing the fresher skin underneath. Retinoids also increase expression of growth factors which help accelerate cell regeneration in the skin. This process of enhancing cell turnover and sloughing off the outermost skin allows retinoids to peel the skin. Over time, the peeling effects also work to fade signs of damage from the sun or aging. Consistent use leaves skin looking rejuvenated, youthful and glowing. The increased cell creation and removal helps smooth roughness, stimulate collagen production, clear pores and brighten the complexion.

Benefits of Peels for Aging Skin

Peels do many good things for skin that make it look better and younger. Here are examples of some antiaging benefits:

Remove dead skin cells – Peels exfoliate the outer layer of skin to reveal fresh new skin underneath

Stimulate collagen production – Peels trigger increased collagen production which firms and tightens the skin

Smooth fine lines and wrinkles – By increasing collagen, peels can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles

Improve skin texture – The exfoliation helps eliminate rough spots and reveal smoother skin

Brighten skin tone – Removing the dull top layer leaves brighter, more even toned skin behind

Clear pores – Peels help dislodge congestion in pores to prevent future breakouts

Reduce acne scars – Over time, peels can fade the look of acne scarring

Correct pigmentation issues – Peels inhibit excess melanin production to lighten brown spots

Minimize enlarged pores – Collagen production tightens pores for a more refined look

Boost hydration and elasticity – Freshly exposed skin better retains moisture and rebounds quicker

side effects of peels for skin aging

Side Effects of Peels

While peels offer many skin rejuvenation benefits, they also come with some potential side effects to be aware of. The chemicals in peels that work to exfoliate skin can in some cases over-exfoliate skin and cause damage in the form of skin burns, inflammation, or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Chemical burns from strong acids like phenol are very likely if used by an inexperienced medical provider, so have caution if you do this in office peel. Working with a well trained board certified dermatologist helps customize the type and depth of peel to avoid negative reactions. When used properly, most patients can undergo peeling treatments with minimal risk or complications. But it’s important to set proper expectations about results, recovery time, and monitor for signs of trouble afterward.

Skincare Routine

Peels will work best on wrinkles if they are part of a customized and complete skincare routine that is designed for your Baumann Skin Type. Take our skin type quiz and we will help you find the right products for your skin type.

DQH Knowledge drop: In your 20s, your skin cell turnover decreases. (Cell turnover is a key component in keeping your skin youthful.) You know what else slows down? Your collagen production. Starting in your 20s, collagen decreases by about 1 percent per year. Should you want to prevent fine lines and wrinkles, start by eliminating behaviors that contribute to premature aging. “If it’s bad for you, it’s bad for your skin,” says dermatologist Michel Somenek. “Cigarette smoking reduces blood flow to the skin and causes premature wrinkling and a dull skin texture. Making the repeated pursed motion to inhale can also cause smoker’s lines. Alcohol and recreational drugs are toxins for the skin that damage its cellular structure and DNA,” Somenek tells us. “The faster you eliminate vices while you are young, the better chance your skin and body have to recuperate.” Also, adopting an anti-aging routine in your 20s is key. After all, the best offense is a good defense. We spoke to Somenek and experts Joshua Ross and Audrey Kunin to find out more. Keep reading for the best anti-aging products for your 20s, according to skincare professionals. Sunscreen “We all know that the sun is the number one cause of skin aging and starting the prevention in your 20s is very important,” Ross says. “The majority of your sun damage won’t start to appear until you’re in your 30s, so don’t wait until you see it surface or you’ll be behind the curve. Stay ahead of it with a good-quality zinc-based sunscreen worn daily.” Farmacy Green Defense Daily Mineral Sunscreen An invisible sunscreen with SPF 30, plus botanical extracts meant to protect skin with tons of antioxidants. Bonus: It’s clean and fine to use under makeup. Bareminerals Complexion Rescue™ Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Although we recommend you use your SPF and moisturizer separately, we also understand moments when you don’t have time or energy for that extra step. For those times, this bareMinerals moisturizer is a great thing to have on hand. Vitamin C Serum “A great introduction to anti-aging is to start with a vitamin C serum in your morning skincare routine,” Ross says. “It’s a powerful antioxidant that will neutralize free radicals and brighten the skin.” He adds that it’s a great way to counteract the effects of the sun’s harmful rays, which, as previously mentioned, are among the biggest causes of premature aging. Drunk Elephant C-Firma™ Vitamin C Day Serum The Drunk Elephant C-Firma is a lightweight serum that promises to give skin a glow by combining the brightening powers of vitamin C with ferulic acid, l-ascorbic acid, and vitamin E. The included sodium hyaluronate is meant to replace hydration loss, so you shouldn’t have to deal with any irritation. Sunday Riley C.E.O. Rapid Flash Brightening Serum This potent serum is jam-packed with vitamin C (15 percent, to be exact), which means it’s a potential superstar at both brightening skin and dousing it in antioxidants. Peptides Using peptides on your skin has many benefits, says Somenek. “The skin barrier is what defends the body against pollution, UV rays, bacteria, and toxins. It can be damaged by several everyday factors. Using topical peptides aids in building a stronger barrier,” he says. “Peptides comprise elastic fibers, which are a type of protein. These fibers help to make skin appear taut and firm. Peptides can also help repair damaged skin, relieve inflammation, and even out skin tone. Some peptides can kill acne-causing bacteria that is common in 20-somethings.” Kunin agrees, saying, “Peptides are an excellent entry point for supporting collagen.” She recommends looking for face and eye treatments that contain these collagen-boosting powerhouses. Charlotte Tilbury Magic Eye Rescue Cream This Charlotte Tilbury super-emollient eye cream has a base of coconut oil and shea butter (read: it’s incredibly hydrating). Botanicals plus peptides are meant to help reduce dark circles and boost collagen, respectively. This creamy moisturizer serves up potent collagen-boosting peptides and pycnogenol, and antioxidant-rich vitamin C. “Instead of sitting on top of the skin, peptides penetrate the outer layer so they go deep. The ‘signals’ they send tell the cells to produce elastin and collagen, which are needed for youthful-looking skin,” explains Somenek. At-Home Peel Pads Remember that skin cell turnover fiasco we talked about earlier? One way to help support it is by exfoliating. “Exfoliation is important to help keep skin fresh and luminous,” Kunin says. She recommends using at-home peel pads as an easy and effective way to exfoliate. “The goal in your 20s is to fight the slowing pace of cell turnover. It is wise to use products that gently exfoliate, yet still remove oil and other impurities. Products that have Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA) or Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHA) are a good choice.” According to Somenek, you should only exfoliate two to three times a week. “People of all ages are guilty of over-exfoliating and that can be too much of a good thing,” he says. Dermadoctor Kakadu C Intensive Vitamin C Peel Pad A few swipes of this Derma Doctor powerful peel pad promise to leave your skin glowing and smooth, thanks to the seven (yes, seven) types of chemical exfoliants, including AHA and BHA. It also contains vitamin C via Kakadu plum extract for added brightening and antioxidant protection. KEY INGREDIENTS Kakadu plum extract is sourced from the Kakadu plum, a fruit grown in northern Australia. It contains vitamin C, which restores the skin’s natural barrier, increases collagen production, and soothes irritation. Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta® Universal Daily Peel Pads These are the gold standard of peel pads, with a cult following and over 900 five-star reviews on Sephora. They’re easy to use and contain a blend of anti-aging exfoliating acids. Emollient Night Cream “In your 20s, you need to start upping the hydration in your skincare routine. You may have been cautious of over-moisturizing because of acne in your teens, but as you enter your 20s, your skin transitions and becomes drier,” Ross says. “I recommend an emollient night cream added into your evening skincare regimen.” “Twenty-somethings need to make sure that they are not using creams that will clog their pores and cause excess oil production,” says Somenek. Opt for non-comedogenic products. Cerave Skin Renewing Night Cream One great choice is the CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream, which is a non-comedogenic night cream that leaves skin soft and glowy. It combines the moisturizing powers of ceramides and hyaluronic acid. RoC Retinol Correxion Max Hydration Creme “The best night cream ingredients contain retinol, benzoyl peroxide, and/or salicylic acid or hyaluronic acid. The goal is to moisturize, yet remove excess oil,” says Somenek. This Roc Retinol Correxion cream fits the bill as it contains both hyaluronic acid and retinol so it promises to moisturize while also being non-comedogenic.

Related Articles

Ad Blocker Detected