Pregnant women need to be careful what they consume and avoid cigarettes, alcohol, raw seafood and other potential dangers. However, if you are pregnant you also need to be aware of what you place on your body. The ingredients of some skin care products or treatments can pass through your skin barrier and absorb into your body, affecting the baby. You may wonder if a glycolic chemical peel is safe to get, especially if your skin is experiencing any unpleasant side effects of pregnancy.
Pregnancy Skin
During pregnancy, your changing hormones may cause you to experience acne, or worsen acne if you had it before you got pregnant. Your body may also produce extra melanin, the pigment that determines your skin color. This can result in what the American Academy of Dermatology refers to as chloasma, which is characterized by dark patches on your skin that can become even darker with exposure to the sun. Fortunately, your skin typically returns to normal within a few months after delivery.
Uses
A glycolic peel is used to improve the appearance and texture of skin. It is made from alphahydroxy acids and is considered a mild and light peel. It works best for fine wrinkles, blemishes and dark spots. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons states that a glycolic peel is typically applied to your face for approximately 10 minutes.
Benefits
A glycolic peel does not require the use of general anesthesia and can be done quickly in a doctor's office. There is also little to no recovery time, unlike deeper and more intense types of peels. It can be done in more than one session to improve results, which can be beneficial if your pregnancy skin is constantly changing.
Side Effects
A glycolic peel, much like other types of peels, has potential side effects like infection, scarring, redness and stinging. You may find that your skin is more sensitive during pregnancy, making these side effects more intense. These symptoms are temporary and go away within a few days as your skin heals from the glycolic peel.
Safety
Babycenter states that glycolic peels are safe during pregnancy. The American Academy of Plastic Surgeons recommends only getting a peel from a qualified plastic surgeon to minimize side effects. In some cases, a bleaching agent may be used before the peel to maximize results. Tell your doctor that you are pregnant so you can decide together if the pretreatment and peel are safe for your situation.
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