Chemical Peels

Find Out How This Popular Treatment Can Make You Look Younger-And Keep Skin Cancer At Bay

Sometimes called chemical peels, resurfacing peels are a non-surgical, non-invasive method that produces quick, sure results to softer, younger looking skin. These peels can remove sun-damaged skin and any pre-cancerous cells it may contain. While the result is similar to a microdermabrasion, chemical peels can be used for more severe situations where a microdermabrasion may not achieve the desired results. For people at high risk, a light chemical peel twice a year is a great way to keep skin cancer at bay. It is also helpful for individuals with facial blemishes, wrinkles, acne scars, and uneven skin pigmentation.

How Do They Work?
All chemical peels involve applying a chemical solution to the skin which, after a day or so, begins to peel off. This process is used on the face, but also on the neck, chest and hands if needed. Varying strengths of the solutions applied determine whether you will have a light or medium peeling. After the skin loosens and falls away, new skin is allowed to appear from underneath. You will see a dramatic difference in skin color, texture and tone. The skin feels softer, smoother and has a healthy glow to it.

How Will A Peel Make Me Look Younger?
Chemical peels are especially effective in erasing fine lines under the eyes and around the mouth, for smoothing areas of rough skin, and eliminating small scars. A peel also can create a more even skin tone by lightening freckles, sun or age spots, or even blotches from medications, such as birth control pills. However, it is important to understand peels cannot remove deep scars, tighten sagging skin, reduce large pore size or eliminate tiny broken blood vessels on the face or nose.

What Will The Treatment Be Like?
On the day of treatment, a resurfacing chemical agent will be applied to your skin. The type of chemical agent used will be selected based on your skin type (chart below), the expected results from treatment and the amount of time your schedule allows for healing.

If you are a skin type 1or 2, a light peel is generally recommend. The solution will make your skin feel warm for five to ten minutes, followed by a stinging sensation which last for about an hour. When the treatment is completed, your skin will look pink, similar to mild sunburn, but you will feel comfortable enough to return to your normal activities right away, including going back to work. Total time in the office for this procedure is less than an hour. During the short recovery time, you will begin to peel lightly for a couple of days. Be sure to protect the treated area from the sun by staying indoors or by using a broad-spectrum sunscreen.
If you are a skin type 3, 4, or 5, you may want to try our "weekend peel". The application is recommended on a Wednesday or Thursday. After the chemical solutions are applied, you may feel mild tingling, burning or warmth. Within 1 to 3 minutes, all discomfort should subside. Normal activities can resume. In 2 to 3 days, the skin will then begin to peel, much like a mild sunburn, or more extreme depending on the strength of the peel used. Remember - you will be extra sun sensitive, so you may want to stay indoors! Peeling will last through the weekend or for about 3 to 4 days. After one week, the skin will look clearer, brighter and smoother and younger.

Are There Any Side Effects?
Chemical peel procedures have few side effects other than the expected peeling and a minimal risk of complication. However, in less than 2% of those who have had peels, complications can include temporary or permanent changes in the color of your skin, scarring (which can be successfully treated later with excellent results) and re-activation of cold sores (fever blisters or herpes simplex infection). If there are concerns about the risk, a small area can be tested prior to the treatment. Also, medication can be prescribed to prevent cold sores.

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