Chemical peeling treatment is used to reduce the effects of aging--surface wrinkles, age spots and irregular pigmentation and rough patches on the skin. When it comes to this cosmetic procedure, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons points out that one type of chemical peel isn't appropriate for everyone; there are a host of different solutions used that vary in strength.
What's Used in Chemical Peeling
Alphahydroxy acids (AHAs) are used in light chemical peels and can improve the texture of rough, dry, sun-weathered skin, according to the ASPS. AHAs can also be used to treat acne and may be formulated with bleaching agents to address problems with pigmentation. Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) targets fine wrinkles and can also be helpful in giving you a more even skin tone. This treatment, which may be preceded by use of prescription topical tretinoin creams (such as Retin-A), can be adjusted in strength. TCA may be appropriate for those with darker skin. Phenol, a more stringent chemical peel, can be used to treat more problematic wrinkles, as well as pre-cancerous lesions, according to the ASPS. Phenol yields the most lasting results, and can even be used to remove freckles. However, it's not appropriate for use on those with dark skin.
Preconsiderations
The ASPS notes that many states allow those without a medical license to administer a chemical peel, but it's best to first consult with a skilled medical practitioner, such as a dermatologist or plastic surgeon. Discuss what you expect to get out of the treatment to make sure this is the best cosmetic procedure for you, keeping in mind that it's not likely to be paid for by your health insurance plan. Those with herpes should always inform their doctor before the procedure is done.
How It's Done
Chemical peeling treatments are performed as an in-office treatment and can take minutes or hours, depending on the type of chemical solution used and the area of skin addressed. Full-face AHA and TCA peels take no more than 15 minutes. The solution is applied to cleansed skin, after which stinging may be noted. A phenol chemical peel takes between 10 minutes to treat a small area of skin to a full two hours for a full-face peel. After a phenol peel, the skin may be coated with petroleum jelly and bandaging. Deeper peels such as TCA and phenol peels require no anesthetic, but your doctor may give you a sedative to relax you.
Post-Treatment
Flaking and scaling of the skin are common side-effects after an AHA peel, although these resolve shortly after treatment. You may require pain medication after a TCA or phenol peel, depending on how much discomfort you experience after the treatment. Both peel types can result in pronounced swelling, and a phenol peel can even put you out of action for a couple of days--you may be required to consume only liquids. TCA and phenol peels can also result in crusting and scabbing of the skin. Your doctor will give you a post-treatment plan that may include applying special ointments or creams, as well as instructions on how to cleanse your face and apply new bandaging to prevent infection and scarring.
Results
AHA peels have the quickest recovery time--you can go back to your daily schedule right way. It takes longer for your dermis to recover from a TCA or phenol peel, from seven to 10 days until new skin begins to emerge, says the ASPS. Although chemical peels can help you turn back the clock, they won't prevent your skin from further intrinsic and extrinsic aging. To maintain your new, smooth complexion, protect your skin from the sun, urges the AAD. Avoid sunbathing and always apply a sunscreen before going outdoors.
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