Are you tired of your dull skin? An alternative way of rejuvenating skin is to have a chemical peel done. A chemical peel acts to burn the topmost layer of your skin to get a usually smoother skin effect when healed. The chemicals used for this technique vary and a trusted dermatologist or a qualified professional should advise you on what to get after checking your skin condition.
The commonly used chemical peels include the following: alpha hydroxy peels (AHAs), beta hydroxy acid peels (BHAs), trichloroacetic acid (TCA) and phenol peels. Below is a table describing more about each type:
Type, Description & Uses
AHAs
The mildest chemical peel types. It is generated from naturally occurring acids such as lactic acid, glycolic and fruit acids.
- • Reduces fine wrinkles
- • Treats and smoothens out dry areas
- • Reduce uneven skin pigmentation
- • Aids in acne control
BHAs
It is a milder version of AHA, as it penetrates deeper through the skin.
- • Controls oily skin and acne
- • Removes superficial dead skin more effectively than AHAs.
TCAs
This type is considered for deeper skin peeling. Chemical solution ranges from 20-50%. There is high risk of scarring if more than 35%. With this type, you need to consider pre-treatments and sunblock use for several months.
- • Removes superficial blemishes
- • Smoothens out fine lines
- • Corrects skin pigmentation
Phenol peels
Phenol is considered the strongest chemical solution among the listed chemicals here. Use of this chemical peel promises a deeper skin peel and effects are often long-lasting. However, because of its strength, it may pose a risk for people with heart problems, would require a longer period of healing and would require increased sun protection during the patient’s lifetime.
- • Smoothens out coarse and deep wrinkles
- • Corrects skin pigmentation caused by sun damage and aging
- • Removes pre-cancerous growths
Procedure
If you are still thinking about getting a chemical peel, this video will give you a hint on how chemical peels are actually done.
Cost
Based on this www.chemicalpeel.org site, costs will differ on the type of chemical used:
Treatment Types Cost Range (in USD)
(Per Treatment)
Chemical Peel $600 to $900
Superficial (AHA) $75 to $350
Medium (TCA) $500 to $2,000
Deep (Phenol) $1,500 to $6,000
Blue Peel $400 to $700
Source: www.chemicalpeel.org
Pain Factor
There are three degrees of chemical peels: light peel, medium peel and deep peel. Medium peels may generate a slight stinging sensation after treatment; but with deep peels, moderate to severe pain is expected to last for days.
Recovery Time
Light peels often show faint discolouration or blotches after treatment. Medium peels require six weeks at most for the bright red appearance of treated skin to fade. Results will not be immediately seen but once healed, skin will be visibly improved. A deep peel causes an itchy and swollen face for about two weeks, but the results can be dramatic and promise longer lasting effects.
Risks
Asian and African skin should use chemical peels with caution. Blotching and uneven skin pigmentation was noted after the skin healed. Hyperpigmentaion may also result from exposure to the sun. For some, burnt skin can last longer than what is expected.
Related links
Chemical Peel
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