Chemical Peels
Chemical peels are a technique used to improve the appearance of skin and are conducted as an outpatient procedure. During a chemical peel treatment, a chemical solution is applied to the skin which causes the skin to “blister” or exfoliate, and eventually peel off. After the skin is peeled the new skin is typically smoother and less wrinkled than the old skin.
Chemical peels can be used to treat a number of different conditions which include:
- Acne scars
- Aging skin
- Crow’s feet
- Hyper-pigmentation
- Melasma
- Scars
- Sun damaged skin
- Sagged skin
- Wrinkles
Light-haired and fair skinned people are the best candidates to receive treatment. This procedure is also not recommended for those with infections, active skin disease, active cold sores, sunburns or cut or broken skin.
During Treatment
Patients may experience discomfort as the chemical peels tend to sting but do not cause a great deal of pain. Chemical peels may cause:
- Redness
- Irritation
- Crusting
- Burning that lasts about 5 to 10 minutes
As the skin begins to adjust to the peel, skin irritation will decrease.
After Treatment
After receiving treatment, skin is temporarily more sensitive to the sun. Depending on the severity of the peel, recovery time can take anywhere from 1 to 21 days to heal. Superficial peels require one to seven days to heal while deeper peels may require anywhere from 14 to 21 days to heal.
If you are looking for a board certified dermatologist who will work with you to develop a custom chemical peel plan contact our office today!
