The chemical peel is a procedure which removes the damaged outer layers of the facial skin to restore a smoother, refreshed and more youthful appearance. Chemical peels can improve or remove scars, fine wrinkles, sunspots, blemishes, and pre-cancerous skin growths. They are particularly effective in treating melasma and senile keratosis and can even improve minor sagging resulting from age. Following treatment, the skin will take on a healthy new glow. Chemical peels are often performed on their own as a stand-alone procedure but they may also be combined with other procedures such as a facelift.
You may be a candidate for a chemical peel if you are physically healthy and have realistic expectations for improving wrinkled or blemished skin. The chemical peel cannot replace a facelift but is ideal for individuals who do not yet need a facelift or have previously had a facelift and are beginning to show new signs of wear.
There are several different chemical solutions available. Because of this, the consultation with Dr. Manchester is essential and will include an in-depth examination of your skin in order to determine the appropriate solution and concentration. Among the different chemical peel options are trichloracetic acid (TCA), alpha hydroxy acids (AHA), glycolic acid, resorcinol and phenol. TCA peels can be used in varying concentrations but are generally a medium-depth peel capable of treating fine surface wrinkles, superficial blemishes and pigment problems. AHA peels are the mildest peels and are able to treat fine wrinkles, uneven pigmentation and dry patches. Glycolic acid is a type of AHA peel. Both TCA and AHA peels may require multiple treatments. The phenol peel is the strongest of the peel solutions and is able to treat more severe facial wrinkles, sun damage, blotchy skin and pre-cancerous growths.
Dr. Manchester performs the chemical peel procedure at his clinic in San Diego, California. Procedural times average one hour and a mild sedative is typically used. Once the sedative has taken effect, the chemical solution is applied to the face and left on for specific period of time before being removed.
A hot, tight sensation of the skin is common after treatment and will last for approximately two days. The skin will take on a brownish tint after the chemical peel but will begin to peel within about forty-eight hours. The peeling skin can be loosened starting on the third day with the application of a light mineral oil. Healing is complete within about four to six days, though you will need to protect the skin from sun exposure for a minimum of six months.
FAQ
What is a chemical peel?
The chemical peel is a procedure which utilizes a chemical solution to remove the damaged outer layers of facial skin in order to improve scars, fine wrinkles, sunspots, blemishes and pre-cancerous skin growths. Chemical peels can rejuvenate the skin to create a smoother, more youthful appearance and healthy glow. There are several different chemical solutions which may be used for the chemical peel including AHA peels, TCA peels, resorcinol and phenol peels.
How do I know if I’m a candidate for a chemical peel?
If you are in good physical health and have realistic expectations for improving facial wrinkles or other blemishes, a chemical peel may be right for you. The chemical peel can be an ideal solution if you are beginning to show signs of age but are not yet ready for a full facelift or if you have already had a facelift and are beginning to show signs of new wear.
What is an AHA peel?
The AHA peel uses alphahydroxy acids such as glycolic, lactic or fruit acid and is capable of producing a mild peel for treating fine wrinkles, dry patches and uneven pigmentation. The result is smoother, brighter-looking skin. More than one treatment may be needed.
Click here to view more questions »
