Chemical Peels
If you're considering a chemical peel...
A chemical peel uses a chemical solution to improve and smooth the texture of the facial skin by removing its damaged outer layers. It is helpful for those individuals with facial blemishes, wrinkles and uneven skin pigmentation. Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) and alphahydroxy acids (AHAs) are used for this purpose. The precise formula used may be adjusted to meet each patient's needs. The chemical peels discussed here are all considered ablative and can only be performed by Dr. Hayes. Lighter chemical peels that are performed by our esthetic staff will be discussed later.
Deciding if chemical peel is right for you : Chemical peels are most commonly performed for cosmetic reasons -- to enhance your appearance and your self confidence. Chemical peels may also remove pre-cancerous skin growths, soften acne facial scars and even control acne. In certain cases, health insurance may cover the peel procedure. Be sure to check your policy and contact your insurance company before the procedure is performed.
Alphahydroxy acids (AHAs), such as glycolic, lactic, or fruit acids are the mildest of the peel formulas and produce light peels. These types of peels can provide smoother, brighter-looking skin for people who can't spare the time to recover from a TCA peel. AHA peels may be used to treat fine wrinkling, areas of dryness, uneven pigmentation and acne. Various concentrations of an AHA may be applied weekly or at longer intervals to obtain the best result. Dr. Hayes will make this decision during your consultation and as the treatment proceeds.
Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) can be used in many concentrations, but it is most commonly used for medium-depth peeling. Fine surface wrinkles, superficial blemishes and pigment problems are commonly treated with TCA. The results of TCA peels are usually less dramatic than a laser resurfacing treatment, but the recovery time is shorter.
All chemical peels carry some uncertainty and risk. Chemical peels are normally a safe procedure when performed by a qualified, experienced plastic surgeon. However, some unpredictability and risks such as infection and scarring, while infrequent, are possible.
AHA peels may cause stinging, redness, irritation and crusting. However, as the skin adjusts to the treatment regimen, these problems will subside. The skin will appear flaky and red for several days after your treatment.
A TCA peel will cause the skin to appear very red then it will harden in to mask like appearance then begin to peel. The peeling can be significant and may last for 5-7 days depending on the strength and depth of the peel.
With a TCA peel, your healed skin will be able to produce pigment as always; the peel will not bleach the skin. However, TCA-peel patients are advised to avoid sun exposure for several months after treatment to protect the newly formed layers of skin.