The skin is made up of millions of cells that protect us from the harmful effects of our environment and regulate our body temperature. Every day thousands of cells die, flake off and are replaced by new cells from beneath the skin. As we age, this regeneration of cells begins to slow down and as a result cause our skin to appear dry and dull. Dark blotches, fine lines and other signs of environmental damage from prolonged exposure to sunlight and pollution begin to take their toll on our skin. This process is accelerated with the aging process.
For more than 100 years, chemical peel skin rejuvenation has been used to create an even and controlled shedding of damaged skin cells. Thousands of chemical peels are performed in the U.S. annually.
Chemical Peel Before and After Photos
A chemical peel uses an acid based solution applied to the skin to remove dead skin cells and stimulate the production of new skin cells. As new cells form, the skin is tightened while wrinkles and fine lines are reduced, resulting in a more youthful appearance.
A chemical peel is very effective in addressing fine lines and wrinkles on the face. Uneven pigmentation and age spots respond well to a chemical peel as do shallow acne scars, freckling and sun-damaged skin. Clogged pours and uneven skin tone can also benefit from a chemical peel.
While a chemical peel is effective in addressing the surface of the skin, it is not a substitute for cosmetic surgery of the face or a facelift. A chemical peel cannot eliminate excess skin or unwanted fat deposits on the eyes, around the mouth and cheeks or under the neck. In many cases a chemical peel is performed in conjunction with these procedures.
Unlike laser peels, chemical peels can be performed on the face, neck, chest, hands and even the arms and legs. Most chemical peels are performed as an outpatient procedure in the office. Dr. Nikko will recommend a superficial, medium, or deep chemical peel based on your unique skin type and desired result. The proper chemical or mix of chemicals (Glycolic acid, Beta lift, Jessner, TCA or Trichloroacetic acid, or Carbolic acid) will be selected and applied to various areas of skin. Once applied, the chemical produces a separation and peeling of the outer layers of the skin. This stimulates the production of new skin from beneath. Most patients experience a warm to hot sensation which may last as long as 10 minutes followed by a slight stinging sensation. Anesthesia may be required for those patients needing a deeper peel.
Following any type of skin peel it is important to avoid any exposure to the sun. Your new skin is very sensitive and susceptible to injury. Always apply a wide spectrum (UVA and UVB blocking) sunblock of at least SPF 15 twenty minutes before you go outside. If your face was treated with a chemical peel, wear a wide brimmed hat when practical to block direct sunlight on the face. You may be prescribed a proper home skincare treatment program to expedite proper healing.
Find out if your skin could benefit from a chemical peel. Call our office
today for a consultation.
