Whether your concern is fine lines and wrinkles, sun damage, textural changes, pore size, acne, or pigmentation, AURAE MD will customize a therapeutic peel just for you.
WHAT IS A CHEMICAL PEEL?
A chemical peel is a technique used to improve the appearance of the skin on the face, neck or hands. A chemical solution is applied to the skin that causes it to exfoliate and eventually peel off. The new, regenerated skin is usually smoother and less wrinkled than the old skin. The new skin is also temporarily more sensitive to the sun. Salicylic acid peels are an excellent treatment for acne with very little downtime or discomfort.
WHEN IS A CHEMICAL PEEL APPROPRIATE?
Chemical peels are used to treat a number of conditions including:
- Acne scars
- Aging skin
- Crow’s feet
- Scars
- Sun damaged skin
- Sagging skin
- Wrinkles
ARE CHEMICAL PEELS PAINFUL?
Chemicals peels can sting slightly or feel hot, but do not cause a great deal of pain. The gentlest peels use alpha-hydroxy, glycolic, lactic or fruit acids and are very gentle.
Trichloroacetic acids are used for stronger peelings. They remove wrinkles, superficial blemishes and pigment problems. These types of treatments sting more than those with the gentler acids. After the treatment there may be redness and mild swelling, but the use of creams and gels will reduce these effects.
WHAT ARE THE COMPLICATIONS OR POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS OF A CHEMICAL PEEL?
- Temporary or permanent change in skin color, particularly for women on birth control pills, who subsequently become pregnant or have a history of melasma.
- Scarring
- Reactivation of cold sores
WHAT CAN I EXPECT AFTER HAVING A CHEMICAL PEEL?
All peels require some follow-up care:
- Superficial peels require 1 to 7 days to heal. Treated skin will initially be red and may peel. Lotion or cream should be applied until the skin heals, followed by daily use of sunscreen. Makeup can usually be worn the next day.
- Medium peels require 5 to 10 days to heal. Treated skin will initially be red and swollen, especially for the first 48 hours. Skin peels in 5 to 10 days. Antiviral medication is taken for 5-10 days if there is a history of cold sores. Mild lotion or cream may be applied. Avoid all sun exposure until healing is complete. Camouflage makeup may be worn after five to seven days. A follow-up appointment will be necessary to monitor progress.
Sun exposure must be avoided after a chemical peel because it can cause unwanted side effects.