1. Deeper Peels for Deeper Problems
Chemical peels are a popular way to improve the overall appearance and texture of skin, and deeper peels are for deeper concerns. A phenol peel is the strongest. Patients with coarse wrinkles, sun-damage, age-related blotches and precancerous growths may benefit from its use. Although it's not as strong as the phenol peel, trichloroacetic acid (TCA) can produce results that the milder alphahydroxy acid (AHA) peels cannot, such as correction of pigmentation and removal of some blemishes. Seek out the advice of a doctor, preferably a dermatologist, before receiving a deeper peel.
2. Deeper Considerations of a TCA Peel
A TCA peel is the preferred chemical solution for individuals with darker skin tones. Your doctor can treat your neck and hands with a TCA peel, too. The concentration of a TCA peel varies and will depend on your individual skin and concerns. It is likely you will need more than one TCA peel to achieve your desired results, as well as maintenance peels periodically. About a month before you receive a TCA peel, the doctor will want you to prepare your skin by applying an AHA cream or Retin-A.
3. The Deepest of Facial Peels
The results gained from a phenol peel are remarkable and long-lasting. Doctors do not recommend the phenol peel for those with dark skin tones because lightening of the skin is possible and permanent. A phenol peel may even remove freckles. The skin loses its ability to tan after a phenol peel. Anyone with any type of heart problem should speak with their doctor about this deeper peel. A physician will only apply a phenol peel to the face.
4. Administering the Deeper Peels
The TCA peel takes about 15 to 20 minutes in comparison to one hour or more for a full-face phenol peel. In either case, you should plan for someone to drive you home from the doctor's office or ambulatory center. The doctor may administer something to relax you, but you won't receive anesthesia. However, the chemical peel solutions act like an anesthesia. Patients need to use a sun block for several months following a TCA peel, and those receiving a phenol peel will need sun protection for a lifetime.
5. Healing From a Deeper Peel
Doctors may apply petroleum jelly and/or tape to patients receiving a phenol peel, which they will need to remove within 48 hours. Expect swelling with either peel. However, the swelling will be worse with a phenol peel, including the eyes swelling shut temporarily. If so, you may need help at home for a day or two. Your doctor may prescribe medication for pain. Follow his post-operative instructions in order to heal properly, and contact him with any concerns or questions. Total recovery from a phenol peel can take several months. A TCA peel requires much less recovery time.
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