What is a Chemical Peel?
Chemical Peels are one of the oldest cosmetic treatments in the world. This popular treatment involves the application of an acid-based solution to the skin that causes the outer layer(s) of the skin to exfoliate and eventually peel off. Most applications are applied to the face, neck, or hand with the ultimate result of minimizing lines and wrinkles caused by sun damage and aging.
Once the skin has been treated and exfoliated, the new skin will look healthier, smoother and more youthful. Most chemical peels take as little as 15 minutes, but deeper peels may require more time. To achieve best results, multiple treatments may be necessary.
A thorough evaluation should be performed by a certified dermatologic surgeon to determine if you are a candidate for the procedure. If you are considering a chemical peel treatment, contact The Aesthetic Center at Louisiana Eye & Laser to schedule a consultation. Read on below to learn more about chemical peel treatment options.
Chemical peels come in varying strengths:
Superficial or lunchtime chemical peel:
- Uses a light application of Alpha-hydroxy acid or other mild acids to treat the epidermis, top layer of skin, to gently exfoliate and remove dead skin cells.
- This process is used to rejuvenate the face, neck, chest or hands and helps to treat mild skin discoloration and rough skin.
- Superficial treatments do not require anesthetic.
- Recovery time and new skin cell development is between one and seven days.
Medium Chemical Peel:
CA) or Glycolic, which penetrates deeper into the middle layers of skin to remove damaged skin cells.
- Medium peels are best for improving age spots, fine lines and wrinkles, moderate skin discolorations and even freckles.
- For deeper peels, sedation may be needed to minimize discomfort.
- Recovery time and development of new skin cells may be between 7 and 14 days.
- Follow up appointments will be necessary to monitor progress.
Deep Chemical Peel:
Uses Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA) or Phenol to penetrate even deeper into the middle layer of the skin to remove damaged skin cells.
- Best for treating deep wrinkles, scars and skin that has been severely damaged by the sun.
- Recovery time and new skin cell development may take between 14 and 21 days.
- Sedation may be needed to minimize discomfort.
- Deep peel applications can only be performed once.
- Follow up appointments will be necessary to monitor progress.
Why should I get a Chemical peel?
Chemical peels can be very beneficial in improving the quality of your skin. This chemical treatment can increase collagen production, reduce your pore size, lessen the amount of surface oil and aid in correcting the visible signs of aging. Chemical peels are also very effective in treating skin conditions such as hyperpigmentation (dark spots) and acne.
Common uses for Chemical Peels:
- Chemical Peels and Microdermabrasion for skin of color
- Acne Scars
- Age Spots
- Aging Skin
- Crow’s Feet
- Hyperpigmentation
- Melasma
- Scars
- Sun-Damaged Skin
- Sagging Skin
- Wrinkles
Visit The Aesthetic Center at Louisiana Eye & Laser
If you’re interested in enhancing your appearance and your self confidence, then stop in and visit the cosmetic experts at The Aesthetic Center. We’re here to help. Just give us a call, schedule online or drop by our office today!