A chemical peel is a technique used to improve the appearance of the skin on the face, neck or hands. A chemical solution is applied to the skin that causes to exfoliate and eventually peel off. The new, regenerated skin is usually smoother and less wrinkled than old skin. There are three basic types of chemical peels:
Superficial Peel- Alpha-hydroxyl acid or another mild acid is used to penetrate the outer layer of skin to gently exfoliate it. The treatment is used to improve the appearance of mild skin discoloration and rough skin as well as to refresh the face, neck or chest.
Medium Peel- Glycolic or trichloroacetic acid is applied to penetrate the out and middle layers of skin to remove damaged skin cells. The treatment is used to improve age spots, fine lines and wrinkles, freckles and moderate skin discoloration. It also can be used to smooth rough skin and treat some precancerous skin growths.
Deep Peel- Trichloroacetic acid or phenol is applied to deeply penetrate the middle layer of skin to remove damaged skin cells. The treatment removes moderate lines, age spots, freckles and shallow scars. Patients will see a dramatic improvement in skin appearance. This procedure is used on the face and can only be preformed once.
*Patient before and after a Superficial Peel.
When is a chemical peel appropriate?
Chemical peels are used to treat a number of conditions including:
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Acne scars
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Aging skin
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Crow’s feet
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Hyperpigmentation
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Melasma
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Scars
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Sun damaged skin
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Wrinkles
Who is not a candidate for a chemical peel?
Generally light-haired and fair skinned people are the best candidates for chemical peels. The procedure is not recommended for individuals with infections, active skin disease, cut or broken skin, sunburns or active Herpes simplex 1 sores. Other counter-indications include patients who are:
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Nursing or pregnant
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Have taken Accutane in the last six months
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Have psoriasis, eczema, dermatitis or rosacea
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Have used Retin-A, Renova, prescription skin care products, products that contain ascorbic acid, bleaching or skin-lightening agents or other acid-based products in the last 48 hours