Chemical Peel

CHEMICAL PEEL IN DEPTH

by Monica Tadros, M.D., F.A.C.S.

When is a chemical peel appropriate?

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

• acne and/or scarring
• aging skin (wrinkles, sun spots, sagging skin)
• crow’s feet
• rough, dull, or damaged skin
• clogged pores
• fine lines and wrinkles
• discoloration/pigmentation

Three Types of Chemical Peels:

• Superficial or “lunch-time facial” peel: This treatment works best to improve the appearance of rough, dry skin and mild skin discoloration. A cosmetic peel can also refresh the appearance of the skin on the face, neck, chest or hands. A mild acid, like Alpha-hydroxy, is applied to penetrate the outermost layer of the skin as it gently exfoliates. Ideal candidates are individuals who have minor issues with the condition of their skin.
• Medium peel: A medium peel is used to reduce the appearance of age spots, wrinkles, fine lines, freckles, and moderate skin discoloration. This treatment can also be used to smooth over rough skin and treat potential precancerous skin growths, i.e. actinic keratosis. A trichloroacetic acid, like Glycolic, is used to penetrate the outer and middle layers of skin to aid in removing dead or damaged skin cells to reveal new, regenerated skin.
• Deep peel: This treatment is ideal for individuals that want to remove moderate lines, freckles, age spots, and shallow scarring. By deeply penetrating the middle layer of the skin with a phenol acid, like trichloroacetic, the deep peel will remove damaged skin cells and reveal an improved appearance in skin texture and tone. This cosmetic procedure is primarily performed on the face and is a one-time treatment due to its intensity.

Who is not a candidate for a Chemical Peel?

Typically, light-haired and fair-skinned individuals are ideal candidates for this procedure, however, patients with darker skin may also have good results depending on the type of issues that are being treated. In this case, it is important to understand that there is a risk of uneven skin tone as a result of the procedure.

Individuals with infections, cut or broken skin, active skin disease, sunburn or active Herpes simplex 1 sores are advised not to undergo this treatment. This treatment can lead to larger issues with the skin, irritation, and infection if not properly assessed by a specialist.