Chemical Peels | Find a Chemical Peel Surgeon Near You

Chemical Peels

Chemical peel uses a chemical solution in order to improve the skin's appearance. It can reduce or eliminate fine lines under the eyes and around the mouth, correct uneven skin pigmentation, remove pre-cancerous skin growths, and soften acne or treat the scars caused by acne. The chemical peel procedure can also treat wrinkles caused by sun damage and scarring, as well as skin blemishes common with age and heredity. Chemical peels can be performed on the face, neck, chest, hands, arms, and legs.

Possible complications associated with chemical peels may include, but are not limited to, the following:
• change in skin tone color - For certain skin types, there is a risk of developing a temporary or permanent skin color change. Taking birth control pills, pregnancy, or a family history of brownish discoloration on the face may increase the possibility of developing the abnormal pigmentation.
• scarring - chemical peels can cause scarring. However, if scarring occurs, it can usually be treated effectively.
• cold sores and fever blisters - Those who are susceptible to cold sores, or Herpes simplex infections, may have a reactivation of cold sores or fever blisters following a chemical peel.
A chemical peel is most commonly performed for cosmetic reasons, to enhance appearance and self-confidence, and may be performed in conjunction with a facelift. However, a chemical peel is not a substitute for a facelift, and does not prevent or slow the aging process.

What substances are used for chemical peels?
Phenol, trichloroacetic acid (TCA), and alphahydroxy acids (AHAs) are used for chemical peels. The precise formula used may be adjusted for each specific patient.
alphahydroxy acids (AHAs)
Alphahydroxy acids (AHAs) such as glycolic, lactic, or fruit acids are the mildest of the peel formulas and produce light chemical peels that can often provide smoother, brighter-looking skin. AHA chemical peels may be used to treat the following:

• fine wrinkling
• areas of dryness
• uneven pigmentation
• aid in control of acne
• smooth rough, dry skin
• improve texture of sun-damaged skin

Trichloracetic acid chemical peel - Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) can be used in many concentrations and is used to accomplish the following:

• smooth fine surface wrinkles
• remove superficial blemishes
• correct pigment problems
• It can be used on the neck or other body areas, and may require pre-treatment with Retin-A or AHA creams. It is preferable for darker-skinned patients.

The results of a TCA peel are usually less dramatic than, and not as long-lasting as, those of a phenol peel. More than one TCA peel may be needed to achieve the desired result.

Pphenol chemical peel - Phenol is the strongest of the chemical solutions and produces a deep peel. These chemical peels are mainly used to accomplish the following:

• correct blotches caused by sun exposure, birth control pills, or aging
• smooth out coarse wrinkles
• remove pre-cancerous growths

In addition to the benefits of chemical peel surgery, make sure you understand its limitations.
• Don't expect perfection.
• Have realistic expectations. Chemical peel can reshape your body, but not your life.
• Know the chemical peels risks.
• Don't do it on the cheap. Pay what it takes for safe chemical peel surgery.
• Make sure your chemical peels surgeon is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.
• Do your homework. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
• Chemical Peels
• Chemical Peels

As the demand grows for cosmetic chemical peels surgery, consumers must realize that all cosmetic surgery procedures carry risks. If you are thinking about having chemical peels, become an informed consumer about the specific procedure and its risks. Select a qualified doctor. Have realistic expectations about the results and know the benefits and limitations of chemical peels.