What
is the function of a chemical peel?
Everyday thousands of skin cells die, fall off and are replaced
by new cells from below. As we age, this process becomes slower
and more haphazard making it difficult for skin to shed dark blotches
or sun damage. The function of a chemical peel is to create an
even, controlled shedding of several layers of damaged cells.
How does a chemical peel work?
When a peeling agent is applied to the skin, the top layers of
cells dry up and, for several days, peel off. This exposes a new
fresh layer with a more even color and smoother texture. In addition,
the peel stimulates new cells to grow, thereby tightening the
skin which decreases wrinkling.
What
can a chemical peel do for my skin?
A chemical peel can effectively improve many conditions including
dull weathered skin, freckling, blotchy pigmentation (including
the mask of pregnancy), sun damage (including precancerous lesions),
fine wrinkles and shallow acne scars.
Can
peels be performed on other areas besides the face?
Yes. Most people have similar aging and sun damage changes on
the neck, chest and hands. Fortunately, some types of peels
can be performed on these areas as well.
Are
there many different types of peels?
Yes. There are several types of peeling agents which can be
used in various strengths. Your doctor will recommend the most
appropriate one for your skin type and condition.
How
many peels will I need?
Although one peel can significantly improve the appearance of
the skin, some problems are deeper than others. You may require
more than one peel to achieve your best results.
Where
is the peel performed?
Skin peels are performed on an outpatient basis at a Dermatology
Specialists, Inc. office.
Does
it hurt?
Once the solution is applied to your skin, you will experience
two to three minutes of burning and stinging. This burning is
so brief that most patients choose not to use any sedation or
anesthesia.
How
much time will I miss from work?
Most people take five to seven days to heal from an average
medium-depth peel. During this time there is no pain, but the
skin looks severely sunburned. Therefore, most patients choose
to stay home. If you are not too self-conscious, however, you
may be able to work during your healing process. Lighter peels
often create only two to three days of flaking allowing any
patient to continue working.
How
soon can I resume my normal outdoor activities?
After a peel you will be more sensitive to sunlight for at least
several weeks. It is very important to avoid strong sunlight
and protect your new skin with sunscreens and hats. Most people,
however, are anxious to protect their new, improved skin from
sun damage and continue to wear sunscreen daily even after they
have completely healed.
Are
there restrictions on who can have a skin peel?
As with any procedure, not everyone is a candidate. Peels done
with weak acids do not permanently lighten the skin and can
therefore be performed on patients with darker skin including
Hispanics, Asians and African-Americans.
Are
consultations necessary?
Yes. If you decide you are interested in having a skin peel,
a Dermatology Specialists, Inc. physician will examine your
skin and discuss the potential benefits and risks of the procedure
for your particular skin type and condition. If it is determined
you are a good candidate and you wish to go ahead with the procedure,
some topical medications will be prescribed to prepare your
skin for peeling.
How
are chemical peels priced?
The price for a chemical peel depends on the type and strength
of the agent used and includes both the cost of the procedure
and your follow-up care. Prescriptions and anesthesia or sedation,
if requested, are additional.
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