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If you have a problem with wrinkles or an unsightly skin blemish,
the application of a chemical peel may be the ideal skin treatment
option for you. This procedure can give satisfactory results and is
less expensive than a cosmetic surgical procedure.
A chemical peel is made up of one of three different
chemicals-phenol, trichloroacetic acid (TCA), and alphahydroxy acids
(AHAs). AHAs are the mildest of these chemicals and are used to
perform surface peeling, which results in smoother looking skin with
virtually no recovery time. The doctor can apply this type of
chemical peel in various amounts of concentration over a period of
time to get the best results. These acids can also be mixed with a
cream or facial wash and can be used on a daily basis.
The side effects of an AHA chemical peel can be stinging,
redness, irritation, and crusting. These problems should disappear
as your skin becomes adjusted to these treatments.
The TCA chemical peel is used for medium-depth peeling and can
effectively treat fine wrinkles, surface blemishes, and problems
that you may have with your pigmentation. This type of peel lasts
longer than the AHA type, although you may also need several
applications of it to obtain satisfactory results.
After the application of the TCA type of chemical peel, unusual
skin color can occur, although this is usually temporary. Patients
who have this procedure done recently are advised to stay out of the
sun to help protect the newly formed skin cells that have resulted
from the treatment.
Phenol is the strongest of all the chemicals used in this
procedure. It creates the deepest peel and can be effective in the
treatment of sun-damaged areas of the skin and spots of precancerous
growths. Due to the depth in which this chemical reaches into the
skin layers, the treated area can show a lighter pigmentation that
can become permanent. You need to take into consideration the color
of your complexion when choosing this form of chemical peel. This
treatment should only be applied to your face.
Performing this peeling technique on other parts of your body can
result in permanent scarring.
After having a phenol chemical peeling performed, many people’s
skin loses the ability to produce pigment. These individuals will
need to stay out the sun for the rest of their lives. This type of
chemical peel is also not recommended for people who any heart
conditions.
A chemical peel can help to improve the appearance of your skin
by exposing new skin cells that appear to be smoother and
younger-looking than the cells that have been removed. You should
discuss with your doctor which chemicals should be used in your peel
that will give you the best results possible.
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