CHEMICAL PEEL

Hey guys, I feel I should share this article I came across….it might be useful

Ok…am gonna be using some chemical terms, not to forget, am an industrial chemist……. Let me know how useful this article is by commenting below!!!

What is a chemical peel?

A chemical peel is a technique used to improve the appearance of the skin.   It is mostly applied to the face but it can also be applied to other parts of the body. Chemical peel is a form of chemical solution which is applied to the skin to cause exfoliation and eventually peel off. The new, regenerated skin is usually smoother and less wrinkled than the old skin.

People say that first impression forms a lasting impression and that your face is the window to your soul.  Having a clean face can help you to achieve this.

Chemical peels (usually a series of peels) can be used to lighten dark spots, smoothen rough skin, improve your overall appearance, and improve your confidence.  Chemical peels can make your skin beautiful. It is employed to treat acne, scars, malasma, etc.  Having a blemish free skin can improve you confidence and help you feel good. 

There are three basic types of chemical peels:

#1. Superficial or lunchtime peel: Alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) or another mild acid is used to penetrate only the outer layer of skin to gently exfoliate it. The treatment is used to improve the appearance of mild skin discoloration and rough skin as well as to refresh the face, neck, chest or hands.

#2. Medium peel: Glycolic or trichloroacetic acid (TCA) is applied to penetrate the out and middle layers of skin to remove damaged skin cells. The treatment is used to improve age spots, fine lines and wrinkles, freckles and moderate skin discoloration. It also can be used to smooth rough skin and treat some precancerous skin growths, i.e. actinic keratosis.

#3. Deep peel: Tricholoracetic acid or phenol is applied to deeply penetrate the middle layer of skin to remove damaged skin cells. The treatment removes moderate lines, age spots, freckles and shallow scars. There will be a dramatic improvement in skin appearance. The procedure is used on the face and can only be performed once.  

What should first be done before considering a chemical peel?

A thorough evaluation by an experienced Doctor is imperative before embarking upon a chemical peel.  The new skin is also temporarily more sensitive to the sun, hence the need for proper sunscreen.

When is a chemical peel appropriate?

Chemical peels are used to treat a number of conditions including: 

• Acne scars 
•  Aging skin 
•  Dull face
• Scars
• Wrinkles 
•  Sun damaged skin
• Bleached skin
• Rough skin
•  Black spot

Who is NOT a candidate for a chemical peel?

Several means are available to avoid the risk of post inflammatory hyperpigmentation e.g. using a single coat of a superficial peel, pre-treatment, or using a test spot.

Generally fair skinned people are the best candidates for chemical peel. The procedure does not work as well on dark-skinned people like me *winks* and caution must be taken when treatment should be applied to blacks. The procedure is not recommended for individuals with infections, active skin disease, cut or broken skin, sunburns or active Herpes simplex 1 sores.

Other contraindications include patients who are:

• Nursing or pregnant.
• Have taken Accutane in last six months.
• Have psoriasis, eczema, dermatitis or rosacea.
• Have used Retin-A, Renova, prescription skin care products, products that contain ascorbic acid, bleaching or skin-lightening agents or other acid-based products in the last 48 hours.

What are the complications or potential side effects of a chemical peel?

• Temporary or permanent change in skin color, particularly for women on birth control pills, who subsequently become pregnant or have a history of brownish facial discoloration.
• Scarring
• Reactivation of cold sores

What can I expect after having a chemical peel?

All peels require some follow-up care:

• Superficial peels require one to seven days to heal. Treated skin will initially be red and may scale. Lotion or cream should be applied until the skin heals, followed by daily use of sunscreen. Makeup can usually be worn the next day.
• Medium peels require seven to 14 days to heal. Treated skin will initially be red and swollen. Antiviral medication is taken for 10 to 14 days. Mild lotion or cream may be applied. Avoid all sun exposure until healing is complete. Camouflage makeup may be worn after five to seven days. A follow-up appointment will be necessary to monitor progress.
• Deep peels require 14 to 21 days to heal. Sun exposure and smoking after a chemical peel must be avoided because they can cause unwanted side effects, including infection and scarring.

Looking forward to your comments…..