ANTIAGING FACIAL TREATMENTS:
Chemical Peels
Alpha Hydroxy or Chemical Peels help restore wrinkled,
lightly scarred, or blemished facial skin. The chemicals
strip off the top layers of skin, and new, younger-looking
skin grows back.
The chemical peel procedure is very effective for deeper
lines around the upper lip but cannot be performed around
the eyes.
Chemical peels may be done as stand alone procedures
or in conjunction with other treatments. Partial chemical
peels are often done in conjunction with a face-lift or
antioxidant treatments.
Chemicals usedin facial peels include: trichloroacetic
acid, high concentrations of alpha hydroxy or beta hydroxy
acids.
Antioxidant pre-treatments or combination treatments
include use of tretinoin [Vitamin A] and Vitamin C.
Antioxidants can enhance the effects of a peel and reduce
the risk of discoloration in people at risk for this
complication.
Chemical Peel Procedure
- Antioxidants are applied 4-6 weeks before and starting
one day after the peel.
- Dermatologist applies chemicals to the skin.
- A crust or a scab forms within 24 hours after surgery.
This can be removed by gentle cleansing with soap
and water.
Chemical Peel Treatment After Care
The skin heals in 6-7 days
The new skin becomes visible, and is deep red but
gradually lightens as it regenerates. Exposure to the
sun should be prevented for up to 2 months.
Complications of Chemical Peels
Complications can include white heads, cold sores, infection,
scarring, numbness, and permanent discoloration, particularly
in people with darker skin. Refinements in the procedure
are continuing to reduce the incident of complications.
Related Reading
Other skin resurfacing treatments include:
Skin Exfoliation
Microdermabrasion and Dermabrasion
Laser Resurfacting
L.E.D Therapy
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