Chemical Peels are an innovative way to treat facial skin for a smoother, fresher appearance. A chemical solution applied to the skin to initiate a peel process is called a chemical peel. Chemical peels smooth skin texture by eliminating the damaged weakened outer layer of the epidermis. Not only will they help to alleviate mild to moderate acne, but also tame pigmentation issues from hormones, sun damage, and acne and will reduce and in some cases eliminate the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
When it comes is to the removal of acne scars a chemical peel can produce very effective results. Three types of chemical peels are available and range from mild to deep. The mildest and fastest peels available are called Micro peels or the Alpha Hydroxy Acid peels (AHA). Sometimes called the lunchtime peel they require minimal to no downtime. The most common side effect is redness to the treated area. The general protocol for this type of peel requires a series of 6 spaced 2 weeks apart. They help control acne as well as eliminate the very top layers of skin.
The next level of chemical peel is the medium depth peel. These peels penetrate deeper into the layers of the skin and are Trichloracetic Acid (TCA). Two to three TCA peels are needed at 3 week intervals to improve texture and tone of skin with minimal to moderate amount of downtime depending on the strength used. Popular TCA peels are the Blue Peel or a Jessner’s peel.
The strongest peel available is the Phenol peel. The Phenol peel will eradicate deep course wrinkles, precancerous cells and even out pigmented skin. A lengthy recovery process is needed afterward often taking several months of complete healing. The disadvantage of a phenol peel is that it impairs the skins ability to generate pigment, and causes permanent whitening of the skin and is recommended only for those of fair skin. The advantage of this deep peel is it can last for greater than 10 years.
If you suffer from any facial skin ailments, whether it is acne, acne scarring, wrinkles, fine lines, sun damage such as age spots, freckles, and pigmented lesions or uneven pigmentation, chemical peels can truly help you to regain your self confidence and be proud of the skin you are in. Consult with your dermatologist today and discover if this skin rejuvenation treatment is right for you. |
