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Home ~ Skin Care: Chemical Peel

What conditions do a chemical Peel treat?

• Reduce fine lines under the eyes and around the mouth
• Treat wrinkles caused by sun damage, aging and hereditary factors
• Improve the appearance of mild scarring
• Treat certain types of acne
• Reduce age spots, freckles and dark patches

Who is a good candidate for a chemical peel?

Generally, fair-skinned and light-haired patients are ideal candidates for chemical peels. Darker skin types may also have good results, depending upon the type of problem being treated.

How are chemical peels performed?

The skin is thoroughly cleansed with an agent that removes excess oils and the eyes and hair are protected. One or more chemical solutions, such as glycolic acid, trichloroacetic acid, salicylic acid, lactic acid or carbolic acid (phenol), are applied to small areas on the skin. These applications produce a controlled wound, enabling new, regenerated skin to appear.

What to expect during the procedure?

During the procedure, most patients experience a warm to somewhat hot sensation that lasts about five to ten minutes, followed by a stinging sensation. Cool compresses may be applied to help alleviate this stinging. A deeper peel may require pain medication during or after the procedure.

What to expect after the chemical peel?

Depending upon the type of chemical peel, a reaction similar to sunburn occurs following the procedure. Peeling usually involves redness, followed by scaling that ends within 3-7 days. Mild peels may be repeated at one to four-week intervals until the desired clinical effect is achieved. Medium-depth and deep peeling may result in swelling, as well as the presence of water blisters that may break, crust, turn brown and peel off over a period of 7-14 days. Medium-depth peels may be repeated in 6-12 months.

After treatment, it is important to avoid over-exposure to the sun after a chemical peel since the new skin is fragile and more susceptible to complications.

How many chemical peels should I have and how often is it recommended?

Many individuals find that a peel performed every 4 to 6 weeks gives optimal results. Glycolic acid peels complement the regular use of other products such as glycolic acid containing preparations that can be used on a regular basis at home. The short term exposure of a higher concentration of glycolic acid on a periodic basis helps maintain skin health and appearance.