Chemical Peels

What is a chemical peel?

Chemical peeling is a technique used to improve the appearance of the skin, in terms of acne, marks, pigmentation and fine lines. Chemical peel uses a chemical solution to improve and smooth the texture of the facial skin by removing its damaged outer layers. It causes the skin to separate, flake off and allows new skin to regenerate.

You need a dermatologist to evaluate your skin and the application is done by a trained dermatologist.

What is a chemical peel used for?

• The chemical peel helps to treat acne, the black heads, whiteheads and the mild superficial acne scars.
• The pigmentation of the skin like sun spots, age spots, freckles, melasma from hormonal causes.
• It can minimize fine wrinkles, especially around the eyes, which are caused by chronic sun damage. It does not treat severe wrinkles.

How a chemical peel is performed?

Chemical peeling is a simple office procedure, which requires no anesthesia, takes only a few minutes and has a very minimal down-time (recovery time). Prior to peeling, instructions may include the elimination of certain medications/creams and preparing your skin with ‘pre-conditioning’ creams. At the time of treatment, the skin is thoroughly cleansed with an agent that removes excess oils, and the eyes, ears and hair are protected.

One or more chemical solutions are used. Cosmetic dermatologists are qualified to select the proper peeling agent based upon the type of skin damage present. During a chemical peel, the dermatologist applies the solution either to entire face/back or to select areas, to produce a controlled wound, enabling new, refreshed skin to appear. Most patients experience tingling, and a warm to somewhat hot sensation which lasts about five to ten minutes. At the end of the peel, a neutralizing solution is sprayed to the area and washed off with cold water.

How do I look after my skin after the peel?

• You need to cleanse the skin gently and apply post peel creams frequently.
• Do not scratch , pick or peel off the scabs.
• Avoid the sun.
• Use a sunblock.
• Do not use your routine anti aging skin creams till a week later.

What are the limitations of chemical peels?

• Peels cannot remove deep scars, deep wrinkles, sagging skin.