A chemical peel is a technique that is characterized by the use of mixture of chemicals that creates gel-like consistency. This functions to get rid of dead skin cells off the surface layer of the skin which then removes the appearance of blemishes and fine lines, diminish circles around the eyes and puffiness, tightens and smoothens the skin, and lightens brown spots. It can also help improve areas of sun damaged skin which may contain pre-cancerous keratoses, which appear as scaly dry spots or AK’s – actinic keratosis. Following treatment, new pre-cancerous lesions are less likely to appear.
There are different chemicals that are used on the skin during a chemical peel treatment. These chemicals are usually created from vinegar, sugar cane, and certain fruits. It is advised by skin experts to undergo three chemical treatments in one month intervals to maximize its potency.
Three main types of chemical peels are distinguished according to one’s skin color, skin type and the condition that needs treatment. Superficial peels, medium peels, and deep peels are the three main types of chemical peels.
Superficial chemical face peels pertain to the chemical peels that are the mildest. Chemicals that are used are glycolic acid, dilute acid, and ice solid carbon dioxide.
Another classification of chemical face peel which more deeply penetrates the skin is termed medium chemical face peels. Burn of second degree is usually evident on the skin because of this treatment. The main agent of this treatment is pegged as trichloroacetic acid; however, other agents can be used before trichloroacetic acid.
Like the medium chemical face peels, deep chemical face peels cause second degree burn on the skin while penetrating several of its layers. These are the most useful type used on bleaching darker skin and mostly used on the face.
This kind of treatment is also engaged to different issues although there are given good effects. Always take note that the deep chemical face peels must only be for the worst kinds of skin diseases.
Just like with any treatment, there are also particular problems that may be encountered when chemical face peels are utilized. First of all, there is a usual excessive peeling of the skin especially with medium chemical face peels and deep chemical face peels. The skin may be reddish because of the peeling sensation that can be usually experience when one undergoes chemical peels. There is also a stinging sensation during the first application. Although temporary, numbness can be felt apart from having crusting of the skin.
After undergoing a chemical face peel, the patient must stay out of the sun for the skin is more sensitive to the sun. Sufferers of keratosis should limit their sun exposure to avoid new lesions from appearing. Of course, the price can be a big hindrance for someone who wants to undergo chemical face peel treatment considering that it is significantly costly.
