Many individuals are turning to chemical plees to improve the appearance of their skin. Used on the face, neck, or hands, a chemical solution causes the skin to exfoliate and eventually peel off (hence the term chemical peel). The new skin is usually smoother and less wrinkled than the old skin.
So What Are They Used For?
Chemical peels can help with a wide range of skin related ailments, which include reducing scarring, wrinkles and sagging skin. The peels can also help with age spots, hyperpigmentation, melasma, and sun damage.
The Three Main Types
Chemical peels can be broken down into three categories, each more powerful than the next. On the milder side of the spectrum is the superficial peel. Using alpha-hydroxy acid, or another mild acid to penetrate the outer layer of skin, this treatment is used to improve mild skin discolorations, and refresh the face, neck, chest or hands. They require anywhere from one to seven days to heal.
In the middle category are medium peels. Glycolic or trichloroacetic acid penetrates both the outermost and middle layers of skin to remove damaged cells. Primarily used to improve age spots, fine lines and wrinkles, this treatment can also be used to smooth skin and even treat some precancerous skin growths. Healing time ranges from between seven and 14 days.
Finally are the deep peels. These harsher treatments deeply penetrate the middle layer of skin to remove lines, age spots, freckles and shallow scars. Patients can expect dramatic results on skin appearance, and can only be performed once. It can take up to 21 days to heal, depending on the patient and several follow-up appointments should be made to monitor progress.
Your cosmetic solution can be found at Timeless Beauty. To choose the right chemical peel for you, schedule a consultation with Dr. McCullom. Together, you can decide on a treatment plan that works best for your needs.
