This procedure is helpful for those individuals with facial blemishes, wrinkles and uneven skin pigmentation. In this procedure, chemical solutions are applied to improve the texture of facial skin. These chemicals remove the sun-damaged outer layers of the skin and promote regeneration of these layers.
There are a number of different chemical solutions available for use. Selection of the appropriate solution depends upon the patient’s desires, life style and the extent of skin damage. The concentration of the chemical solution can be adjusted to meet the patient’s need. Chemical peels can also be performed in conjunction with the face lift but should not be considered a substitute to surgery.
Some to the solution used for chemicals are AHAs (alphahydroxy acids), TCA (trichloroacetic acid), and Phenole. AHAs such as lactic acid, glycolic acid and malic acid are the mildest and produce a light peel. Depending upon the concentration, these acids can sometimes cause some stinging redness and irritation. These symptoms subside very quickly over a few days. Lower concentration acids can also be incorporated into daily skin regimens.
TCA is available in different strengths and is commonly used for medium-depth peeling. Fine wrinkles, superficial blemishes and pigmentation are effectively treated with TCA peels. The recovery time is shorter and sometimes more than one treatment is needed to achieve the desired results. TCA can be used in individuals with darker skin pigmentation.
Phenole is the strongest of the peeling agents and produces a deep peel. It is used to address deep wrinkles and heavily sun damaged skin areas of the face. The results are quite dramatic but significant down time is associated with phenol peels. With these peels, skin can lose the ability to produce pigment. The patients are therefore advised to always avoid direct sun exposure.
Preparing for a chemical peel
No special treatment of skin is necessary if AHAs are to be used. These are commonly performed along with Microdermabrasion to obtain the maximum effect from the peel. However when deeper peels are planned, the patients are instructed to use Retin A and Hydroquinones for 4 to 6 weeks prior to the actual peel. These agents help to produce more collagen and bleach the skin to avoid undesirable pigmentation after the procedure. A daily skin care regimen is also advised which the patients are encouraged to continue even after the procedure.
Anesthesia
Generally no anesthesia is necessary for lighter peels. Medium depth peels can be performed with light sedation and facial nerve blocks. Deeper peels require deeper sedation and even general anesthesia in some cases.
The procedure
Prior to performing the peel, the skin is thoroughly cleansed. The surgeon then applies the chemical solution very meticulously while protecting the patient’s eyes. The solution is spread evenly and its effect on the skin is carefully monitored. Skin on certain parts of the face is thicker and requires a second coat of the solution. Patients will experience some burning and stinging which subsides in a few minutes. A lubricating petroleum jelly is applied to the face of patients undergoing a phenol peel.
Aftercare
Patients are instructed to avoid exposure to direct sunlight as it may cause deep skin burns and undesirable pigmentation of the treated skin. Flaking and peeling of the skin will be noticed over the next several days and new skin will be apparent in a few more days. Sun blocks and moisturizing lotions are also recommended.
Patients are advised to avoid any strenuous activity which can produce significant facial swelling. Patients with deeper peels will experience more discomfort and swelling following the procedure and they are advised to stay home for a few weeks. To find out which is the right peel for you, schedule an appointment with Dr. Ali.
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