As with any procedure, there are possible risks involved. Your doctor will review all of these with you. She’ll answer all of your questions ahead of the procedure including what to expect after the procedure.
Patients will typically experience some degree of redness, irritation and burning after a chemical peel. Patients who undergo TCA peels are advised to stay out of the sun for several months after the procedure.
Phenol peels often result in the loss of the skin’s ability to produce pigment and will, therefore, leave the skin lighter. Patients who have phenol peels are advised not to go in the sun at all as the skin will be much more sensitive. It is important to discuss any history of heart complications with your surgeon prior to the procedure as phenol acid may pose a risk for patients with heart disease.
AHA Peels are designed to minimize the appearance of fine wrinkles, dryness, acne and uneven pigmentation. They are the mildest form of chemical peels using Alphahydroxy acids (AHAs), such as Glycolic, lactic or fruit acids. These brighten the skin through light peels.
This type of peel works best for minor skin damage. Once applied to the skin, Glycolic Acid weakens the binding properties of the skin’s lipids “glue” that hold dead cells together. The reaction allows the outer layer of the skin to peel off, leaving the patient with a new layer of skin cells that are more vibrant and smooth.
Depending on the regime decided by you and your doctor, a mix of low concentrations of the AHA acid with a facial wash or cream may be used as part of a daily skin-care regimen to improve the over all texture of the skin.
This mild Glycolic Acid Chemical Peel is especially good for minimizing the appearance of:
TCA Peels target fine surface wrinkles and more severe skin discoloration. They use Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) for medium-depth peel. Depending on the goals of the patient, the surgeon may recommend scheduling a series of peels to meet your needs.
Phenol acid solutions are designed to treat coarse facial wrinkles, pre-cancerous growths and blotchy, sun-damaged areas. They are the deepest and strongest forms of chemical peels.