Chemical peels remove damaged outer layers of skin to make skin smoother, reduce scarring and remove blemishes. Ranging from mild to strong, there are three types of chemical peels: alphahydroxy acid (AHA), trichloroacetic acid (TCA) and phenol. The strength of each peel is tailored to the patient. Peels can be combined with other procedures, such as facelifts, for additional improvement to skin. Chemical peels may be covered by insurance if they are performed for medical rather than cosmetic reasons.
Chemical peels are performed in a plastic surgeon‘s or dermatologist‘s office, or an outpatient surgical center. Anesthesia is not required because TCA and phenol have anesthetic properties, and AHA produces only a slight stinging.
Chemical Peel Procedure
During a TCA or phenol peel, the skin is cleansed and the solution is applied, which may cause a brief stinging sensation. Petroleum jelly or a waterproof adhesive tape may be put on the skin following a phenol peel. During an AHA peel, the skin is cleansed and the solution applied; there is no need for post-peel ointment or covering.
What Conditions Can a Chemical Peel Treat?
A chemical peel is used to improve the texture and complexion of the skin by eliminating the appearance of the following conditions from its outermost surface:
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Acne and acne scars
- Dark spots
- Hyperpigmentation
- Sun damage
- Melasma
- Rosacea
- Precancerous growths
Who Is a Candidate for Chemical Peels?
Ideal candidates for chemical peels are adults who want to see improvement in the appearance of their skin. Chemical peels are effective at producing long-lasting results for people with all skin types and skin tones.
Despite being a safe and effective treatment, chemical peels may not be for everyone. You may not qualify as an eligible candidate for chemical peels if you have any of the following:
- History of abnormal skin scarring
- Active infection
- Cut skin
- Sunburn
- Psoriasis
- Eczema
- Are pregnant
- Have taken Accutane within the last six months
Schedule a consultation at ADF Dermatology & Skin Surgical Center to determine if you are a candidate for chemical peels.
What Things Should You Avoid While Experiencing Peeling?
During your peeling period, there are a number of activities that should be avoided to reduce complications and achieve optimal results from a chemical peel. These activities include:
- Sun exposure while you are peeling.
- Exfoliating your skin. This may lead to over-exfoliation.
- Extremely hot showers.
- Touching or picking at your peeled skin. This can cause scarring.
- Applying makeup to keep the skin clean.
- Hot tubs and swimming pools.
- Other facial treatments such as waxing and laser treatments.
- Harsh skincare
- Drinking alcohol
- Direct heat such as saunas or tanning beds
- Avoid smoking.
What Does a Chemical Peel Feel Like?
Chemical peels are not an overly painful treatment. Among applications, patients may experience a slight burning sensation that feels similar to the effects of a sunburn. Your skin may feel warm or stiff as soon as the chemical peel is applied. This is a common feeling which shouldn’t last more than five minutes. Handheld fans will be provided to help you minimize any discomfort.
Once your chemical peel begins to peel off, you may experience itching, tingling, and dry spots on your skin, which is normal. Relief from itching and dryness can be treated with the moisturizers provided. Peeling skin may be washed away with a gentle cleanser.
Side Effects of Chemical Peels
A phenol or TCA peel can result in tingling or throbbing, reddened skin, a crust or scab, and significant swelling that lasts, depending on the strength of the peel used, about a week. With a phenol peel, eyes may be swollen shut at first, and the patient may be put on a liquid diet and advised to keep talking to a minimum. Any tape used is removed after a day or two. AHA peels can cause temporary stinging, redness and irritation, as well as flaking or crusting. After a chemical peel, it is essential that the skin be protected from the sun.
How Often Will I Need a Chemical Peel?
To maintain the results of healthy glowing skin, we recommend patients get a light chemical every four to six weeks. If you are looking to exfoliate and eliminate dead skin cells at a deeper level, medium chemical peel treatments should be done every four to six months. Deep chemical peels should only be done once every few years.
Schedule a Consultation for Chemical Peels at ADF Dermatology & Skin Surgical Center Today
At ADF Dermatology & Skin Surgical Center, we want our patients to feel comfortable and confident about the appearance of their skin. To schedule a consultation for chemical peels with board-certified dermatologist Dr. Alfredo D. Fernandez, click here or call one of our two Florida locations: Sarasota, FL (941-906-7546) and Port Charlotte, FL (941-743-7546). We look forward to helping you achieve healthier, more radiant skin!
