Although you have probably heard of chemical peels, you may not know what is involved in this powerful form of skin treatment. What exactly is a chemical peel? How is it administered? Would you make a good candidate for a peel? These are just a few of the questions that you may have before setting up a consultation, and below we provide answers that will help you make a decision.
What Is a Chemical Peel?
A chemical peel is simply a medical-grade chemical solution that we apply to the skin to help improve its condition and appearance. The procedure, as the name suggests, peels away some of the outer skin to trigger a skin rejuvenation process that helps to minimize imperfections.
Chemical peels come in three basic forms: Light, medium, and deep. The category that a given peel falls into depends upon its active ingredient, concentration, depth of penetration, and length of time it remains on the skin before it is rinsed off. Light chemical peels are used in cases of very light lines and wrinkles, dry skin, acne, and uneven tone. Medium peels are used for light to moderate wrinkles and scars. Deep peels are the most powerful form of this treatment for deep wrinkles, blotches, and pre-cancerous growths.
What Is a Light Chemical Peel?
A light chemical peel is comparable to a form of exfoliation. It helps to improve one’s complexion and skin tone. Typical chemicals used in a light peel are lactic, glycolic, and alphahydroxy acids.
What Is a Medium Peel?
A medium chemical peel is a stronger form of treatment that often uses a chemical like TCA to peel away portions of the epidermis skin layer. Medium peels are appropriate for light to moderate wrinkles and light scars. A patient undergoing a medium peel will sometimes require some downtime.
What Is a Deep Peel?
A deep chemical peel is a type of treatment involving the application of strong chemical solutions containing acids like carbolic acid and phenol. Although significant downtime are usually required when undergoing a deep peel, the treatment still offers very dramatic results in the improvement of skin problems like deep lines and wrinkles, scars, and stretch marks.
How Should I Prepare for My Chemical Peel?
Remain hydrated before and after your chemical peel treatment. Consume plenty of fluids and refrain from activities that could dry your skin. You should also stay with your normal skin care routine. Experimenting with different skin care products before a peel is risky because it can make your skin more vulnerable to unexpected damage.
Contact Us
If you think you may be able to benefit from a chemical peel, or if you have any questions regarding chemical peels, the professionals at Soler Cosmetic Plastic Surgery are ready to help. We are conveniently located in Tampa, FL. Contact us today to schedule your consultation!