| Chemical Peel
Procedures. A
chemical peel uses a chemical solution to smooth and improve the texture of your facial
skin by removing the damaged outer layers. If you have facial blemishes, wrinkles, or
uneven skin pigmentation, a chemical peel may be beneficial. Chemical peels can also
remove pre-cancerous skin growths, soften facial scars, and reduce the appearance of acne
scarring.
There are three different
types of chemicals commonly used in chemical peeling. The type of chemical peel that is
best for you depends on the depth of the peel needed to get the results that you desire.
Alphahydroxy acids (AHAs),
such as glycolic and fruit acids, are the mildest of the peel formulae. They are designed
to treat fine wrinkling, uneven pigmentation, and acne. Alphahydroxy acids are routinely
used as part of a daily skin care regimen.
Trichloroacetic acid (TCA)
is generally used in medium-depth peeling to treat fine surface wrinkles, pigment
problems, blemishes, and sun-damaged areas.
Phenol chemical peel offer
the strongest of the chemical solutions used for chemical peeling, and produce the deepest
peel. They are indicated for deeper wrinkling, significant sun-damage, or precancerous
growths.
Frequently
Asked Questions.
How long would a
chemical peel take?
Most chemical peels take
from 45 minutes to 1 1/2 hours to perform. They are performed in the doctor's office.
What can I expect
after a chemical peel?
Your results will depend
on the type of peeling agent used. With AHA peels, there is a mild burning sensation when
the solution is applied. There may be mild flaking of the treated areas, but most patients
can reapply makeup the following day. With TCA and phenol peels, there is a moderate
amount of discomfort and swelling. The patient can expect a peeling of the skin during the
next 24-48 hours. Complete heeling usually occurs in 10-14 days.
When can I return
to work?
After an AHA peel, most
patients return to work immediately or the following day. TCA and Phenol peels require a
healing time of 10-14 days.
| Skin Care Procedures |
| Chemical Peel | Dermabrasion | Laser Skin Rejuvenation | |