If You're Considering Chemical Peel...

Chemical peel uses a chemical solution to improve and smooth the texture of the facial skin by removing its damaged outer layers. It is helpful for those individuals with facial blemishes, wrinkles and uneven skin pigmentation. Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) and alphahydroxy acids (AHAs) are used for this purpose. The precise formula used may be adjusted to meet each patient's needs. Although chemical peel may be performed in conjunction with a facelift, it is not a substitute for such surgery, nor will it prevent or slow the aging process. The information below provides basic information about certain types of chemical peel treatments and the results you might expect. It won't answer all your questions, since a lot depends on your individual circumstances. Once you and your esthetician have decided on a specific peel program, be sure to ask about any details that you do not understand.

Deciding if a chemical peel is right for you:

Chemical peels are most commonly performed for cosmetic reasons -- to enhance your appearance and your self confidence. Chemical peels may also remove pre-cancerous skin growths, soften acne facial scars and even control acne. In certain cases, health insurance may cover the peel procedure. Be sure to check your policy and contact your insurance company before the procedure is performed.

Alphahydroxy acids (AHAs), such as glycolic, lactic, or fruit acids are the mildest of the peel formulas and produce light peels. These types of peels can provide smoother, brighter-looking skin for people who can't spare the time to recover from a phenol or stronger TCA peel. AHA peels may be used to treat fine wrinkling, areas of dryness, uneven pigmentation and acne. Various concentrations of an AHA may be applied weekly or at longer intervals to obtain the best result. Your esthetician will make this decision during your consultation and as the treatment proceeds. An alphahydroxy acid, such as glycolic acid, can also be mixed with a facial wash or cream in lesser concentrations as part of a daily skin-care regimen to improve the skin's texture.

Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) can be used in many concentrations, but it is most commonly used for medium-depth peeling. Fine surface wrinkles, superficial blemishes and pigment problems are commonly treated with TCA.

During treatment TCA and AHA peels may cause stinging, redness, irritation and crusting. However, as the skin adjusts to the treatment regimen, these problems will subside.

With a TCA peel, your healed skin will be able to produce pigment as always; the peel will not bleach the skin. However, TCA-peel patients are advised to avoid sun exposure for several months after treatment to protect the newly formed layers of skin.

Peel Formulas at a Glance

Alphahydroxy acids (AHAs)

Uses:
• Smooths rough, dry skin
• Improves texture of sun-damaged skin
• Aids in control of acne
• Can be helpful to correct pigment problems
• Can be used as TCA pre-treatment

Considerations:
• A series of peels may be needed
• As with most peel treatments, sunblock use is recommended

Trichloroacetic acid (TCA)

Uses:
• Smooths out fine surface wrinkles
• Removes superficial blemishes
• Corrects pigment problems

Considerations:
• Can be used on neck or other body areas
• Treatment takes only 10-15 minutes
• Peel depth can be adjusted
• Repeat treatment may be needed to maintain results
• Sunblock must be used for several months
• Healing is usually quick, much quicker than with a phenol peel