The Obagi Blue Peel is a type of chemical peel that uses trichloroacetic acid, or TCA, as an active peeling agent. This cosmetic treatment, which derives its name from the color of the peeling solution applied to the skin, is a medium-depth peel used to reduce signs of aging.
About Obagi Medical
The Obagi Blue Peel is a branded product that is manufactured and sold by Obagi Medical Products Inc., a pharmaceutical company based out of Long Beach, California, that specializes in developing topical products to treat mature skin. There are other TCA peels available, says cosmetics expert Paula Begoun; however, the Obagi Blue Peel's ingredients are proprietary. Begoun notes that many dermatologists suspect that Dr. Zein E. Obagi, who developed the peel, used blue dye in the peeling solution simply to differentiate it from other TCA peels.
Where to Get the Peel
Only certain dermatologists or their assistants administer the Obagi Blue Peel, Begoun states. It cannot be purchased over the counter and used at home. Begoun notes that doctors who use the Obagi peel go through expensive training to learn how to deliver this treatment to their patients.
What to Expect
According to Jain Plastic Surgery, P.C., a plastic surgery center based out of Columbus, Georgia, the Obagi Blue Peel takes less than an hour. Depending on the extent of aging of the skin, TCA and Obagi's patented blue base are mixed together in varying concentrations. The solution is applied to the face and/or neck in a doctor's office. You'll notice a burning or stinging sensation for a few minutes. After the peeling solution is removed, your skin may have a bluish hue that typically washes away between 12 and 24 hours.
After the Obagi Blue Peel
The American Academy of Dermatology states that swollen, red skin is common after a TCA-based peel. These symptoms may get worse for 48 hours after the peel before they resolve. Watery blisters may form on your skin, break open and crust over before they heal. The typical recovery time after a TCA peel is between seven and 14 days, during which time you'll need to treat your skin gently. The AAD indicates that your doctor may have you use special soaks, lotions and creams. Sun avoidance is advised until your skin completely heals.
Other Information
The Obagi Blue Peel is often used in conjunction with Obagi's Nu-Derm System, according to Jain Plastic Surgery. This is a physician-delivered skincare line that includes cleansers, toners, moisturizers, sunblocks, skin lighteners and other specialty products designed to make skin look younger and healthier. Any type of TCA peel may put you at risk for scarring and discoloration of the treated area, Begoun says. Usually only one TCA peel is sufficient to treat more pronounced wrinkling and signs of photoaging.
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