Austin Dermatologist - Chemical Peels
Chemical peels uses a chemical solution to produce a controlled exfoliation which improves and smoothes the texture of the skin by removing its damaged outer layers. It is helpful for individuals with blemishes, fine lines, wrinkles, uneven skin pigmentation, dryness and texture concerns.
The precise formula used may be adjusted to meet the individual needs of the patient, but some commonly used chemicals include glycolic acid, trichloride acetic acid, salicylic acid, lactic acid and kojic acid. Additional products may be used in conjunction with these chemicals.
Alphahydroxy acids such as glycolic and lactic acids are the mildest of the peel formulas and produce light peels. These types of peels produce smoother, brighter-looking skin. Various concentrations may be applied to obtain the best results for the individual. Improvement of fine wrinkling, dryness, uneven pigmentation and blemishes can show improvement with a series of chemical peels, or peels used in conjunction with other treatment options. Peels can be combined and enhanced with a pre-microdermabrasion. Your doctor will customize a regimen for you depending on your skin needs
Chemical peel uses a chemical solution to produce a controlled wound which improves and smoothes the texture of the skin by removing its damaged outer layers.
It is helpful for individuals with blemishes, fine lines, wrinkles, uneven skin pigmentation, dryness and texture concerns.
The precise formula used may be adjusted to meet the individual needs of the client, but some commonly used chemicals include glycolic acid, salicylic acid, lactic acid and kojic acid. Additional products may be used in conjunction with these chemicals.
Alphahydroxy acids such as glycolic and lactic acids are the mildest of the peel formulas and produce light peels. These types of peels produce smoother, brighter-looking skin. Various concentrations may be applied to obtain the best results for the individual. Improvement of fine wrinkling, dryness, uneven pigmentation and blemishes can show improvement with a series of chemical peels, or peels used in conjunction with other treatment options.
Deciding if a chemical peel program is right for you should be determined with the help of a skin professional.
In most cases a series of 4-6 treatments spaced one to two weeks apart is recommended to achieve optimum results. Skin will look brighter and smoother following 1-2 chemical peels, but improvement is expected after a full series of 4-6 peels, or peels used in conjunction with other treatment options. After the initial course of treatments have been completed, maintenance treatments may help to maintain the results.
All chemical peels carry some uncertainty and risk, but is normally a safe procedure when performed by a licensed skin care specialist. Our peels typically use alphahydroxy acids which are milder than peels performed by dermatologists, so rarely carry the risk of side effects. Any chemical or product applied to the skin can cause allergic or other reaction in some individuals, but precautions are taken to avoid treating sensitive skin through a thorough medical history and skin evaluation.
It is common to experience some temporary flaking, scaling, redness and dryness of the skin following a chemical peel. These conditions will disappear as the skin adjusts to treatment. You may return to work and normal activities immediately following chemical peel. Adherence with post treatment instructions is imperative for proper healing.
Protecting your skin from sun is always recommended for the health of your skin, but it is especially important after a chemical peel. Skin will be more sensitive so extra precaution should be taken to avoid exposing the newly treated area to the sun. Cover your face and always wear a high quality sun block.