Chemical Peel

The skin is the largest organ in the body. It is made up of millions of cells that protect us from the environment and regulate our body temperature. Every day thousands of cells die, flake off and are replaced by new cells from beneath the skin. As we age, this process begins to slow down and skin may get dull. Dark blotches, fine lines and other signs of sun-damage and aging begin to appear.

For more than 100 years, chemical peel skin rejuvenation has been used to create an even and controlled shedding of damaged skin cells. Thousands of chemical peels are performed in the U.S. yearly.

 

Chemical Peel Before and After Photos

What is a chemical peel?

A chemical peel uses a solution applied to the skin to remove dead skin cells and stimulate the production of new skin cells. It tightens the skin, reduces wrinkling and restores a more youthful appearance.

What will happen during the chemical peel consulation?

During your consultation you will want to explain the level of skin improvement you hope to achieve. Your medical history will then be reviewed and your skin type and pigmentation will be examined to determine if you are a good candidate for a chemical peel. Don't forget to mention any history of viral infections, sensitivity to the sun, or prior skin treatments such as dermabrasion or Accutane treatments within the past six months.

What skin conditions can a chemical peel improve?

Chemical peels can effectively improve a wide variety of skin conditions including:

Fine lines and wrinkles
Uneven pigmentations
Shallow acne scars
Sun-damaged skin
Age spots
Freckling

A chemical peel is not a substitute for a facelift. It cannot eliminate excessive or lax skin. But, in many cases a chemical peel is performed in conjunction with these procedures.

What is the treatment like?

Unlike laser peels, chemical peels can be performed on the face, neck, chest, hands and even the arms and legs. Most chemical peels are performed as outpatient procedures in the office. Depending on your skin type and desired results, you may be recommended a superficial, medium, or deep chemical peel.
The proper chemical or mix of chemicals (glycolic acid, beta lift, Jessner, TCA or trichloroacetic acid, or carbolic acid) will be selected and applied to various areas of skin. Once applied, the chemical produces a separation and peeling of the outer layers of the skin. This stimulates the production of new skin from beneath. Most patients experience a warm to hot sensation which may last as long as 10 minutes, followed by a stinging sensation. For deeper peels, some patients require anesthesia.

What should be expected after treatment?

Reactions to chemical peels are similar to a sunburn and range from mild to more pronounced. Generally, the deeper the peel, the longer the recovery. A light peel usually results in some redness, and possibly some scaling for a few days. Medium and deep peels can result in swelling and blisters that break open forming a crust and turning brown, followed by peeling which can last up to two weeks. These peels may require dressings on some or all of the treated skin. Dressings are usually removed after a day or two. Ointments and creams will be applied to keep the skin moist.
At first the new skin will have the color of a significant sunburn. This will gradually fade to pink over the next several weeks. Cosmetics can be applied after about two weeks. Following a chemical peel, your new skin will be tighter, smoother and may be slightly lighter than it was before surgery.
Following any skin peel, it is important that you avoid any exposure to the sun. Your new skin is very sensitive and susceptible to injury. Always apply a wide spectrum (UVA and UVB blocking) sunblock of at least SPF 15 twenty minutes before you go outside. You will be prescribed a proper home skin-care treatment program to ensure proper healing.

Find out if your skin could benefit from a chemical peel. Call our office today for a consultation.