What is a Facial Chemical Peel?
A chemical peel also referred to as dermapeeling or chemexfoliation, is a procedure that involves the application of a chemical solution to the skin layers in order to make them blister and then remove away. The skin that regenerates is smoother and even.
Chemical peels are commonly used to treat wrinkles, discolored skin, and facial scars. They can be performed alone or in conjunction with other derma procedures. They can also be done at various depths, from level 1 (light) to level 3 (baritone).
With level 1 peel and medium peel, you may need to repeat the procedure to achieve the desired results. Deeper chemical peels produce more dramatic results but take longer to heal.
How many Types of Chemical Peels Are There?
A chemical peel is a procedure for resurfacing the skin. You'll select a chemical peel in one of three depths based on your skin condition.
Level 1 Chemical Peel;
- A level 1 (surface level) chemical peel removes the skin's outermost barrier (epidermis).
- To gently exfoliate the skin, alpha-hydroxy acid or any other mild acid is used in this process.
- It is used to get rid of fine wrinkles, enlarged pores, uneven skin tone, and oiliness. Every two to five weeks, you could have a light peel.
Level 2 Chemical Peel;
- Level 2 peel is a medium tendency chemical peel that removes skin cells from the epidermis and segments of your upper middle layer of skin (dermis).
- In this process, glycolic or trichloroacetic acid is commonly used. It is used for the treatment of wrinkles, acne scars, and uneven complexion.
- To reach or maintain the desired result, you may need to repeat the procedure. It can also be used to smooth skin texture and treat certain precancerous skin growths, such as actinic keratosis.
Level 3 or Deep Chemical Peel;
- A deep chemical peel removes even more skin cells. It blisters the first three layers of the skin.
- This method utilizes trichloroacetic acid or phenol.
- Your doctor may advise you to get one for deeper wrinkles, scars, or precancerous growths. The procedure applies to the face and can only be done once.
Are you a Good Candidate for Chemical Peels? Let’s find out!
In general, people with fair skin and light hair are better candidates for chemical peels. Depending on the type of skin condition being treated, you could also have satisfactory outcomes if you have darker skin. However, you may be more prone to having uneven skin tone after the procedure.
Level 1 and 2 Chemical peels do not work well on skin that sags, bulges, or has more severe fine lines. Other cosmetic surgical procedures, such as facelift, brow lift, eyelid lift, or soft tissue filler, may be required. A dermatologic surgeon can advise you on the best course of treatment for you.
The first step after selecting a reputable medical spa professional is to plan a pre-procedure discussion session to discuss why you want a chemical peel, whether it suits you, and your treatment expectations. Your medical history and meds will be reviewed to determine whether you are a good candidate for the procedure.
What Tests Would They Need?
The examination includes checking for factors that could increase the risk of complications, such as a
- History of diabetes,
- Nutritional deficiencies,
- Photosensitivity,
- Abnormal scarring,
- Prior radiation,
- Recent facial surgery,
- Skin conditions,
- Use of isotretinoin or oral contraceptives,
- Smoking status,
- Pregnancy status,
- Amount of daily sun exposure.
What to Anticipate?
Prior to the process
The typical setting for a chemical peel is an office or an outpatient surgical facility. Your dermatologist would like to clean your face and cover your hair and eyes with balm, gauze, tape, or goggles prior to the procedure.
Level 1 chemical peel typically doesn't require painkillers. You might be given a sedative and anesthetic if you are getting a medium peel. You might receive a sedative, a numbing agent for the treatment area, and fluids injected directly into a vein for a deep peel.
Throughout the process
Depending on the kind of chemical peel you're getting, your doctor may apply a chemical solution with a brush, cotton-tipped applicator, gauze, or sponge. The skin will start to lighten after treatment.
Your doctor will use cool compresses to calm the treated skin after a short while. To keep your skin cool, you might also be given a hand-held fan.
For up to 20 minutes, stinging and burning may be experienced.
However, you'll receive intravenous (IV) fluids and have your heart rate closely watched during a level 3 chemical peel.
Your doctor will perform the procedure in sections over the course of about 15 minutes in order to reduce your exposure to phenol. An entire face procedure could take up to 90 minutes.
Post Procedure Guidelines
Your skin will be red, tight, irritated, or swollen following a chemical peel of any depth. Follow your doctor's recommendations for skin care, including cleansing, moisturizing, and applying sunscreen and protective ointments. Likewise, refrain from picking, rubbing, or scratching your skin. Before you see the full effects of the peel and your skin color returns to normal, it could take several months.
While your skin is recovering from a chemical peel, you might prefer to stay at home. Soon after your treatment, you'll probably require several follow-up visits so that your doctor can keep an eye on your recovery.
Bottomline
Level 1 and 2 chemical peels reduce the visibility of fine wrinkles while enhancing skin tone and texture. Though subtle, the effects get more robust with each treatment. Your skin will be noticeably smoother after a medium chemical peel.
Though after level 3 chemical peel, you'll notice a significant improvement in the appearance and texture of the treated areas. But it's pretty risky. Results might not be long-lasting. New lines and changes in skin tone can develop with time due to aging and further sun damage.
The new skin is momentarily more sun sensitive after every peel. So, you should need to care all long after getting chemical peels.
Also, since the chemical peel is a derma treatment, it is not considered in insurance yet.
Call the skincare professionals at Angels and Sages to book your complimentary consultation now at 405-607-1701
