Chemical Peels
It would be stellar if signs of aging could simply be peeled from the skin. A dermatologist can make this happen to some extent by using chemical peels. A chemical peel can mitigate many signs of facial aging as well as those on the neck, hands, and chest.
Benefits of Chemical Peels
Chemical peels also address some dermatology conditions, such as some types of acne and conditions that cause skin discoloration. Regardless of whether a patient undergoes a chemical peel to reduce signs of aging or treat a skin condition, they can experience:
- Fewer wrinkles and lines
- More even skin color
- Smoother skin
- Dazzling complexion
Certain chemical peels require downtime.
Uses
The dermatologist uses chemical peels to address:
- Age spots
- Acne (some types)
- Dull complexion
- Discoloration (blotchy, uneven complexion)
- Fine lines (particularly under the eyes and around the mouth)
- Melasma
- Freckles
- Sun-damage skin
- Rough-feeling skin
What occurs during a Chemical Peel Treatment?
Prior to receiving a chemical peel, certain patients need to follow a pre-peel skin care plan for two to four weeks. This plan can enhance the outcomes and reduce potential side effects. The dermatologist will tell the patient whether this is required.
The patient will initially be prepped for the treatment on the day of their peel. This includes cleansing the skin properly. In case they undergo a deep peel, they will receive general anesthesia and will remain asleep during the procedure. A deep peel must be undertaken in a surgical setting.
After being prepped, the dermatologist will apply the peel rapidly and evenly. The dermatologist will monitor the patient’s skin carefully to remove the peel at just the right time. In case of a deep peel, the skin is treated one small section at a time as doing so limits the effects on the lungs and heart.
Once the peel comes off, the skin will be treated as necessary. Patients who undergo a medium peel may require cool compresses followed by a cream or lotion to soothe their skin. With deep peels, patients will have a wound that necessitates a surgical dressing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there downtime involved with chemical peels?
The patient will have downtime after a medium or deep peel medical spa treatment. A deep chemical peel necessitates recuperation at home for two to three weeks.
When will I see the outcomes?
After the skin heals, the patient will be able to see the outcomes. The healing time ranges from one day for a rejuvenating or lunchtime peel to 14 days or longer for a deep peel. To get the outcomes that the patient seek from a lunchtime or refreshing peel, they may need to have three to five peels.
How long will the outcomes last?
Most outcomes are not permanent as the skin continues to age. In case a person has experienced significantly damaged skin or has precancerous skin growths known as AKs, they will likely continue to see new growths and spots on their skin.
What are the potential side effects?
Side effects tend to be mild in the hands of a doctor experienced with chemical peels. Certain patients develop:
- Persistent redness that may remain for several months
- Temporary darkening of the skin
- Lighter skin color with medium or deep peels
- Scarring (exceptionally rare when undertaken by a dermatologist)
For More Information contact our Board Certified in Dermatologists at Texas Surgical Dermatology in Spring, TX
For more information on procedures and treatments offered at Texas Surgical Dermatology PA please call 832.663.6566 or click here to contact our dermatologists. Helping patients in Houston, The Woodlands, Spring, Katy and other surrounding areas of Texas.
