What are Chemical Peels?
Posted on 27. Feb, 2009 by Catherine Deans, L.E. in Chemical Peel
Many of my clients want to restore damaged facial skin. They may have blotchy skin, sun damage, or may just want to rejuvenate their skin. A chemical peel may be just the solution to fit their budget yet still achieve their skin care goals. Many first time chemical peel clients want to know what a chemical peel is and/or what they can expect during the procedure.
A chemical peel is simply applying a safe but effective chemical solution to cause chemical exfoliation of the epidermis, or outer layer of the skin. As a licensed esthetician, I use chemical solutions like glycolic acid, lactic acid, salicylic, trichloroacetic acid (TCA), or Skin Medica’s Vitalize Peel to remove damaged outer layers of facial skin. The result is a smoother more even complexion.
Most chemical peels can be performed in less than one hour, some in as little time as half an hour. I always start by examining my clients skin to ensure that a chemical peel is appropriate. Then I gently cleanse the skin where the chemical peel is going to be placed. A petroleum jelly is applied to sensitive areas like the lips, corners of the eyes, and edge of the nose. Finally, a chemical solution is applied to the face in a specific pattern to ensure even distribution of the chemical solution. The chemical solution can be applied more than once depending on the severity of sun damage or acne. There is generally a 2 – 3 minute waiting period before applying the next layer.
A lot of my clients say they experience some tingling or a mild burning sensation. Therefore, I use a fan to help cool their face between applications of the chemical peel. This really helps with any discomfort that you may experience.
Upon completion of the chemical peel, you may feel like you have a mild windburn. This is very common. Flaking of the skin will begin approximately 2 days after the peel and can last up to 5 days. It is very important not to pick or pull at the skin. The skin should be allowed to peel off naturally. Flaking and peeling can be controlled with a moisturizer. You should use a gentle facial cleanser to wash your face and always make sure you apply a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.
Chemical peels are an inexpensive and simple cosmetic procedure that can improve your skin’s appearance.
About this contributer:
Rachel is a Licensed Aesthetician who honed her skills at her own skin care business before focusing on the medical field, where the science behind skin care makes the most difference.
As a skin care specialist, Rachel provides a wide variety of services at Abrams Dermatology including: facials, Microdermabrasion, chemical peels, and spray tans. She is experienced with Obagi, Neostrata, PCA, Yonka, Herzog and other skin care lines.
