What Is A Chemical Peel?
The purpose of a chemical peel is to remove the layers of dead skin, revealing fresh skin underneath. The body creates new cells to replace the ones that the peel removes. Many medical specialists believe that new collagen is also generated following the peel procedure. In a chemical peel, we apply an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) or a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) to cleansed skin. The acid is left on for a short time (this depends on the condition of the skin, your tolerance level, etc). The acid is then neutralized and removed. Your skin is moisturized, we apply sunscreen, and you are on your way.
There are three main types of peels. Light peels are most commonly performed using alpha hydroxy acids and salicylic acid. Alpha hydroxyl acids are naturally occurring acids found in fruits and other foods and salicylic acid is actually aspirin. Alpha hydroxy acids have proven to be effective in treating dry skin, acne, liver or sun spots, diminishing fine facial wrinkles, decreasing pore size, and improving skin texture. Light peels are usually performed in a series of six to eight peels, each peel two or three weeks apart. This type of peel leaves the skin with a red glow that lasts for a day or so. Medium peels are often performed with trichloroacetic acid. These peels may be performed several times per year as desired. Medium peels have the same benefits as light peels and, because of deeper penetration, can remove larger wrinkles and precancerous skin lesions. The drawback is that a medium peel makes the skin on the face appear to have severe sunburn for several days. This peel ma
If you’re considering chemical peel… Chemical peel uses a chemical solution to improve and smooth the texture of the facial skin by removing its damaged outer layers. It is helpful for those individuals with facial blemishes, wrinkles and uneven skin pigmentation. Phenol, trichloroacetic acid (TCA) and alphahydroxy acids (AHAs) are used for this purpose. The precise formula used may be adjusted to meet each patient’s needs. Although chemical peel may be performed in conjunction with a facelift, it is not a substitute for such surgery, nor will it prevent or slow the aging process. This brochure provides basic information about certain types of chemical peel treatments and the results you might expect. It won’t answer all your questions, since a lot depends on your individual circumstances. Once you and your plastic surgeon have decided on a specific peel program, be sure to ask about any details that you do not understand. Deciding if chemical peel is right for you Chemical peel is m
This procedure can restore sun-damaged, wrinkled, blemished, acne scarred or blotchy skin to its original youthful appearance. The results are normally a smoother more even toned textured skin. The skin will look younger, tighter and fresher than before although it cannot remove all facial flaws. Deeper lines, wrinkles and other flaws may require additional treatments or techniques. The chemicals normally used are Trichloracetic acid (TCA, for more superficial lines and blemishes) or Phenol (a much deeper and more serious peel) for deeper wrinkles, flaws or discolorations. Regardless, the down time is considerable so be prepared to take time off for recovery. Your Options in Chemical Peels There are very minor peels and there are deeper, more serious, peels requiring sedation and extensive recovery time. We will discuss the available options today so that you may make a well-rounded, informed decision. These peels can be used not only on the face, but on the neck. chest, back, arms, ha
