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The
Effect
Chemical peel utilizes a chemical solution that strips away
the skin’s top layers in order to restore skin that is
wrinkled, blemished, sun damaged or unevenly pigmented.
Chemicals such as AHA, trichloroacetic acid, or phenol are
utilized to get rid of layers of damaged or aged skin in
order to reveal revitalized skin.
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The
Procedure
Before
undergoing the procedure, the dermatologist will assess your
case and from there, decide on what is the most suitable
solution to be used for your treatment. Time needed for a
chemical peel is approximately 5 to 10 minutes for the
entire face. No anesthesia is required for this.
The
solution chosen would then be applied either to the entire
face or to a specific area, for instance the crow’s feet
area surrounding the eyes or the wrinkles around the mouth
region. A sponge or a cotton pad may be used in applying
the solution. On the other hand, a cotton swab or a brush
may be utilized for smaller areas. The acid is then gently
and skillfully applied to the patient’s skin. After a
certain amount of time, the dermatologist or the skin care
specialist neutralizes the applied acid and removes the
product. The skin is then cleansed and moisturized.
Occasionally, a membrane is placed in order to aid in the
healing process and for the patient's comfort as well.
This, however, is used more for thorough peels such as the
phenol peel, Obagi Blue, laser, among others.
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Best
Candidates
Chemical peel works most effectively on fair, thin-skinned
areas with wrinkles that are only superficial.
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Treatments
AHA Peel
Glycolic Acid Peel
Phenol Peel
Obagi Blue
Laser
TCA
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Side Effects
Side
effects may include throbbing, tingling, redness or erythema,
swelling, sensitivity to sun exposure, all of which are
temporary.
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Recovery Time
This
procedure generally has no down time. After having a
chemical peel, you may feel some tightness of the skin and
feel like it is sunburned. Exaggerated facial expressions
should be avoided after having a chemical peel as this can
result in tearing and bleeding of the skin which may lead to
scarring. The skin should heal naturally. Avoid touching
or pulling on skin as this may result in permanent damage.
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Frequently Asked
Questions
Q:
When should I get a chemical peel?
A:
Whenever there is damage to be removed, chemical peels can
be performed. The minimum age limit though is usually early
teens.
The
best time to perform a chemical peel is during wintertime
since this is the time where there is least amount of sun
exposure. It is also advised that this procedure be done
after a thorough skincare routine
Q:
What are the common risks of a chemical peel?
A:
You should watch out for crusting or extreme weeping which
could occur in AHA peels. Although sometimes this could be
normal, there is a borderline appearance that you must be
aware of. Inquire from a skincare specialist about what
specific things to look out for. usually, in about 3 to 4
days, a typical AHA peel would look and feel normal at this
time. For peels which are more intense, down time may take
weeks and complete recovery may take about a few months.
Also,
you must immediately get in touch with a skincare specialist
once pain is experienced in facial area, especially if you
are prone to cold sores. These blisters should be treated
at once.
It is
also important to be cautious if you have oral herpes. Make
sure that the primary physician would approve of this
treatment. It is also advisable that you be prescribed oral
acyclovir. When a breakout occurs at the time of your
healing period, the herpes may spread to your whole face
which may result in severe and permanent scarring.
Excessive coloration (hyperpigmentation) and lack of
pigmentation (hypopigmentation) may occur when you are not
able to disclose any skin problems, ethnicity, and improper
post-peel care during the consultation. This may also
happen when skin types are misdiagnosed. Infection,
although not common, may be possible. So it is important to
be cautious about it. Watch out for any redness or pain.
It is
vital to stick to the post-peel instructions given by the
skincare specialist in order to prevent scarring and reduce
the likelihood of having long-term or permanent visible
signs of damage.
Q:
What does a usual chemical peel consultation require?
A:
During the consultation, a full skin type evaluation, as
well as a skin elasticity check will be done by a skincare
specialist. Options for this procedure will be discussed as
well.
Q:
Will the results be permanent?
A:
It is important that even after you undergo the procedure,
you must be able to take good care of your skin. Even if
you had a chemical peel and you stress the skin by too much
sun exposure, smoking, etc., your skin will still end up
looking damaged. Proper skin care and use of maintenance
and preventive products like a high SPF sunblock will aid in
retaining a revitalized and more youthful look.
With a
chemical peel, as one continues to age, signs of aging such
as wrinkles will be softened and one would achieve a fresher
look depending on the depth of the peel.
Q:
When will I be able to observe results?
A:
Results are seen when pink, fresh skin becomes apparent
beneath the peeling skin. Make sure that you do not pull or
rub off the damaged skin. After a few weeks, the pink
appearance will fade for most light peels. Some may have
remaining pinkness that is similar to a mild sunburn
depending on the depth and type of the peel used.
Q:
Will the procedure hurt?
A:
A warm, tingling sensation or a stinging sensation may be
felt after the procedure. This depends on the strength of
the peel.
Q: How
long does the procedure take?
A:
This procedure usually takes approximately 15 to 20
minutes. The results are usually not permanent but
maintained improvement can be achieved by interval
treatments.
Q:
Will I need further treatments?
A:
The physician assistant will determine the appropriate
program for your skin type. Peels usually begin at a
strength of 30% glycolic and is increased up to about 70%
over the course of the treatment. In general, a series of 3
to 6 treatments are necessary in order to achieve the most
favorable results. Treatments are typically spaced 2 to 3
weeks apart. Results of the peel are immediately seen.
Q:
What are glycolic peels?
A:
Glycolic peels make use of acids that are used in order to
exfoliate the skin. They are proven to improve fine lines
and wrinkles, even out mild acne scars, reduce the
manifestation of light brown spots, and give the skin a
refreshed and glowing look. After the procedure, it is
expected that your skin may have some redness and have a
sunburn feeling; however, the patient may be able to resume
normal activities. Application of makeup 24 to 48 hours
after the procedure is not advisable.
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