Are you ready for a chemical peel? If you suffer from facial blemishes, wrinkles or uneven skin pigmentation, you might consider consulting a plastic surgeon or dermatologist about the procedure.
The Process
A chemical peel uses a solution to smooth the texture of the facial skin by removing the damaged outer layers. A chemical solution is applied to the skin, causing the skin to blister and ultimately peel. In some instances, precancerous skin growths can be removed during a peel. In other cases, a peel can assist with acne by lessening acne facial scars and controlling the spread of acne.
There are three different types of peels. The mildest utilizes an alphahydroxy acid (AHA), and this type of procedure is intended to smooth and brighten skin. You may be familiar with AHA, which is often mixed with facial wash or cream. AHA peels can treat acne or uneven pigmentation when it is mixed with a bleaching agent. Occasionally, this method is used as a pre-treatment for a different type of peel. For the procedure to be effective, a series of peels might be needed.
Trichloroaecetic acid (TCA) is generally used for medium-depth peeling. TCA can be used on the neck or other body parts to treat fine surface wrinkles and blemishes. The peel process takes only 10 to 15 minutes. Quite often, more than one TCA peel is needed. A pre-treatment with AHA or Retin-A cream might be required.
A deep chemical peel uses phenol to treat blotchy or sun-damaged skin and pre-cancerous growths. Phenol can be used only on the face and is not recommended for dark skin tones since it can lighten pigment. If you suffer from heart problems, the procedure may put you at risk. Sometimes, the recovery period can last several months.
Before, During and After
The cost of chemical peels is high. In some cases, insurance may cover the procedure, but you will need to check. Don't let price be your guide. Your first priority should be to find a doctor who has plenty of experience performing the procedure.
In your first consultation with a doctor, tell the doctor all about your medical history, including what you think is minor, to avoid chemical peel side effects. For example, let the doctor know if you have had cold sores in the past because a chemical peel might trigger an outbreak. Also let the doctor know if you have taken birth control. Those who take birth control might have more changes in their pigment if they have a chemical peel.
Also discuss the risks and potential pain with the doctor. The doctor should let you know that scarring can result and should be honest about whether or not you are a good candidate for a chemical peel. If you think the doctor is pushing you to have the procedure done or you feel rushed, you should consult with other doctors. If a doctor tells you that you are not a good candidate for a chemical peel because of your skin, take the doctor's advice.
Several recommendations might be handed down from the doctor prior to the chemical peel. If you are taking certain drugs, your doctor might advise that you cease taking the medication. You might also be asked to apply Retin-A or glycolic acid to your face before the procedure. Some doctors prescribe antibiotics if the patient wants a deeper depth of peel. No matter what, you'll want to stay out of the sun to make sure your skin is in its best condition.
During the peel, patients might feel a warm or mildly hot sensation that lasts up to ten minutes. If the doctor is applying a deeper chemical peel, the patient will feel more discomfort, and the doctor can give you pain relievers. A doctor with the right amount of experience will be able to tell you how much pain you can expect and to help you prepare. A stinging feeling might follow after the procedure, and that can be alleviated with a cold compress.
After the procedure, peeling and redness occur and ends within a week. A TCA peel might induce swelling and water blisters for one to two weeks following the procedure. Depending on the depth of the peel, some patients may require bandages to be used on part or all of the treated area. These bandages are removed several days following the procedure. No matter which type of peel you have, avoiding the sun is important. If you are going outside, sunscreen must be used.
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