Everyone deserves to have smooth flawless skin. A chemical peel is a non-surgical procedure that can help you get treat uneven skin tone, rough skin, and facial blemishes. Chemical peels are an outpatient procedure and can be done at our office.
Why Should I Get a Chemical Peel?
The chemical-peel procedure is effective in treating:
• Skin blemishes like dark spots and freckles
• Uneven skin tone
• Rough skin
• Acne
• Wrinkles
• Precancerous skin growths
• Scars
Peels are usually used to treat facial skin but can also be used on certain other areas of the body.
How Does It Work?
Chemical peels work by removing the upper layers of skin and revealing the healthy new skin underneath. To start, we apply a chemical solution to the area of skin being treated. The peel acts on the skin by loosening the upper layers of skin cells, which will start to peel off over a period of time.
Once the skin has fully peeled away, the new skin cells are revealed. This new skin layer is even, smooth, and blemish-free. Results will depend on each individual case; tell Dr. Gantous what you expect and ask questions so you can have realistic expectations.
Types of Peels
There are three main types of chemical peels:
Superficial chemical peel: This type of peel treats only the upper layer of skin and is used for fine lines, rough skin, and lighter blemishes. The main ingredient in the peel is alpha-hydroxy acid, which is mixed with other mild acids. The procedure does not take very long, and most patients only experience a mild stinging sensation while the peel is being applied. The superficial chemical peel can also be used to treat the neck, chest, and hands.
Medium chemical peel: This type of peel uses glycolic or trichloroacetic acid and penetrates the upper and middle layers of skin. Medium peels are used for more pronounced blemishes, sun damage, and skin discoloration. Precancerous skin growths can also be treated with the medium chemical peel. Patients can request sedation if required.
Deep chemical peel: Deep chemical peels use trichloroacetic acid or phenol and treat the deeper layers of the skin. Deep chemical peels not only treat lines, blemishes, rough skin, and dark spots, they are also effective for scars. The procedure is usually carried out under sedation and has a longer recovery time than the other two types of peels. A deep chemical peel can only be done once per patient.
Post-Treatment Healing
Depending on the peel strength, it can take from a few weeks to a few months for the healing process to be complete and the results to be fully visible.
During the recovery period, the treated skin will be very sensitive, and sunscreen should be generously applied. Avoid direct sun exposure by wearing a broad-brimmed hat when going out.
Men and women who are in good health can get a chemical peel. Patients will need to stop smoking and taking certain medications for a few weeks before and after the procedure.
Find Out More About Peels
Consult qualified and experienced facial plastic surgery specialist Dr. Andres Gantous if you are thinking about getting a chemical peel done. He will be the best person to advise you on the procedure and your options. To arrange your consultation, contact our office.