Chemical Peel
It's a procedure in which a controlled chemical burn is applied to the skin using chemical solution in order to remove outer layers of the skin. It can remove delicate wrinkles, pigmentation marks and other skin defects. Peeling also has some medical advantages like removal of pre cancerous conditions and acne scars.
The solutions being used are phenol, trichloroacetic acid (TCA) and alphahydroxil acids (AHA).
AHA is used for delicate peeling, it gives you smooth and shine skin, and it also treats delicate wrinkles, acne scars and pigmentation. Several treatments usually required on weekly bases. The solution can also be incorporated into cr?mes or facial wash and can be used on daily bases.
TCA is used for intermediate peeling. It removes wrinkles and superficial skin defects and pigmentation. Usually more then one treatment required and it has longer healing times then AHA. It can be used in whole body parts.
Phenol is the most powerful solution, which is used for deep peeling. It removes deep wrinkles, pre malignant conditions and skin defects due to sun exposure; it also causes brighter skin color. It can be used only in the face area.
It is recommended to use several creams before the peeling to get better results. Retin-A thinners the upper layers of the skin and hydroquinone which bleaches the skin.
The peeling is done by the following techniques: AHA - after the cleaning of the skin the doctor spreads the solution on the skin. It takes 10 minutes, afterwards the doctor gives you instructions how to use this cream for several weeks at home.. During those weeks you'll be invited for check up to follow the progress of peeling.
TCA - usually takes 45 minutes. You may feel a burning sensation which disappears after a few minutes. Second treatments usually done with an interval of a couple of month.
Peeling with phenol lasts 1-2 hours. One treatment usually sufficient. You'll need to cover the face with a bandage or Vaseline cream.
After the treatment with AHA you can immediately return to daily activities, but you must wear sunscreen. TCA causes redness and swelling which disappears during the week, you can return to work after 7-10 days. After the use of phenol skin regeneration usually takes 7-10 days. At first you'll have a very reddish skin that will gradually change to pink color. It is very important to avoid direct sun exposure and use sunscreen to avoid burns and pigmentation.