One method of treating acne and improving acne scarring is to have a chemical peel. It has become more popular in recent years because it is one of the least invasive treatments for your skin. Peels are most commonly used on the face, but can also be used on the neck. Along with treating acne and acne scars, chemical peels can also improve skin tone and reduce fine lines and wrinkles.
Process
A skin peel is a method of exfoliating the skin by dissolving the outer layers of skin with chemicals. This process creates a wound, which starts a healing process causing new tissue to surface. The new skin will be smoother with improved texture and color. There are different strengths and depths of chemical peels, which produce different results and have various recuperation times.
Types of Peels
An alphahydroxy acid (AHA) peel is the mildest of peels, and can aid in acne control, improve skin texture and coloration, and smooth the skin. A trichloroacetic acid (TCA) peel is deeper than the AHA peel, and is used to remove surface blemishes and fine wrinkles, and correct pigment or discoloration problems. A phenol peel is the strongest and deepest of chemical peels, and can provide improvement to existing acne and older acne scars, but is not beneficial in the treatment of deep acne scars.
Benefits of Skin Peels
Lesser strength AHA peels can be purchased for in-home use, which makes this appealing for people who only need a light peel or have little time for recuperation. TCA peels come in various concentrations, and the depth of the peel can be adjusted according to individual needs. The TCA peel might need to be repeated to maintain desired results, but the treatment only takes 10 to 15 minutes. Phenol peels are the deepest, but according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the results are dramatic and long-lasting.
Side Effects/Risks of Skin Peels
With a light peel, your skin may be red and peel slightly for a few days after treatment. When a TCA peel is used, you may experience redness, stinging and crustiness, and your skin may be more sensitive to the sun for several months. For a phenol peel, swelling and blistering may occur for one or two weeks, or even longer. This deeper peel is not for everyone--- it may put some heart patients at risk, and is not recommended for dark-skinned people.
After Your Treatment -- What to Expect
After you have completely healed, you can expect your skin to be smoother and firmer with a more even skin tone. Before these results are achieved, however, expect to experience recuperation time from several days to several months, depending upon what type of peel you had. Be prepared to stay out of the sun, and to wear sunscreen if it cannot be avoided. According to the American Academy of Dermatologists, there is a very low risk of scarring after a chemical peel, which can be treated. There is also a risk of infection. Talk to your dermatologist about any concerns you may have.
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