CHEMICAL PEELS

Do I, Don't I ?.....

Get "No More Moles, Warts, or Skin Tags!"

CHEMICAL PEELS

Chemical peels are very popular skin-rejuvenating procedure at the moment. As with any cosmetic procedure though, it does come with some risks and warnings.

With that said there are also many positive benefits to chemical peels. Chemical peels have been proven to dramatically reduce the effects of aging. Where they can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

For those who have sun-damaged skin or skin that is blotchy or unevenly pigmented, then chemical peels can help.

This procedure is not for everyone.

First, have you or your family a history of heart disease, you should consult with your physician first before getting a chemical peel to make sure that it is safe for you. Another option could be Microdermabrasion, as it has fewer side effects and less potential risks than from chemical peels.

If you happen to suffer from frequent cold sore breakout's, you should be warned that you may have a moderate to severe outbreak following chemical peels.

Chemical peels are not good for all skin types. If you have very dry skin or very sensitive skin, chemical peels are not going to be the best treatment for you. Chemical peels will most likely make your symptoms appear worse, maybe more flaky, itchy and your skin may appear more red.

People who suffer from severe acne on the other hand would benefit from chemical peels, remember acne has four grades of its own. A person who has a grade 1 acne would have minor blemishes. A person who has a grade 4 acne, would suffer from severe inflammation, and cysts or blemishes that would be much deeper. You may also need more than one chemical peel

Again as with all procedures consult with your doctor

Scarring can be a potential risk associated with chemical peels, and so are skin infections. Having said that, these risks are low if you are going to a experienced, professional plastic surgeon.

Usually, the scarring will be temporary, that is if it occurs at all, but there have been reported cases of permanent scarring and even pigmentation damage. talk to your surgeon before hand if this worries you at all.

It is not uncommon to experience redness after having chemical peels, especially if you have sensitive skin. You may also have some crusting and stinging. The redness will go down after about twenty-four to forty-eight hours, and the crusting will stop after about two weeks.

Be sure to follow all the instructions after undergoing chemical peels. Your plastic surgeon should give you a list of these and if you have any problems call and talk to someone.

You will most likely be told to stay out of the sun and to keep your skin well moisturized with a moisturizer than contains sunscreen that is at least SPF 15.

You may be told to start using Retin A as a pre-treatment to your chemical peel. Depending on your skin type and the degree of your skin problems, you may be advised to use Retin A for over a month before getting the chemical peel.

If you are getting your chemical peel so that you will look great for a special event, make sure that you get it done well in advance so that any redness or swelling has stopped in time.

CHEMICAL PEELING?

What is a chemical peel, it does exactly that. It peels the layers of skin off, by using a chemical.

The chemical peel will remove the outer layers of the skin. This in turn will freshen the skin, and it will remove some sunspots and rough patches.

It may also reduces freckles and any irregular pigmentation.

It will help to reduce fine wrinkles. There is some evidence that it may reduce the risk of skin cancer as well.

It is safest and most effective if done on the face. Hands can be peeled but the risk of scarring is higher and the results less predictable.

How many types of chemical peels are there. Actually there are many types of chemical peels with various strengths and costs. Anything $75 to $600 or even more depending who you have it done with.

Each one is very good in its own way, again do your research find the one that will suit you and talk to the person who will be doing the procedure.

TYPES OF CHEMICAL PEELS

Alpha hydroxy acids and Glycolic Peels (AHA) This is the most effective and they have a range of concentrations. Ask what is the best one for your skin type.

Jessner's Peel. This is very effective for treating pigmentation, sunspots and acne scars.

Sal Ex 20%.This is less aggressive than a Jessner's, but very good for cell rejuvenation and mitigating free radicals.

Oceanix Peel. This is a marine-based peel. This peel is like having 10 microdermabrasion treatments in one session. People who have cystic acne, pigmentation and visible acne scars will benefit from this. It can be very expensive.

Green Herbal Peel. This uses natural herbal and plant-based ingredients to exfoliate, smooth and treat.

TCA Peels. These will make you have an increased sensitivity to sunlight and avoidance of sun exposure is usually advisable for several months after the treatment.

HOW IS IT DONE?

Generally chemical peels should not take more than 20 minutes. First the skin will be thoroughly cleansed with acetone or another cleanser. Then the acid is applied to the face and monitored. It may be applied more then once.

After having your peel done, your skin will look red and feel very tight. This doesn't mean it's been burned. The first layer of skin will have been burned of by the acid that has eaten up the dry and dead skin.

Depending on the type of peel you have had, the number of layers that have been applied and the amount of time the peel has been left on your face, the sensation you feel will vary

If burning or stinging is a problem, a cold pack may be helpful or you could ask for a fan to be placed near your face after the peel is applied. Usually the treatment is carried out in sections.

WHAT HAPPENS AFTERWARDS?

Your skin will not always start to peel straight after a chemical treatment. You skin may start to peel anywhere from three to seven days after the treatment. You must not pick at the skin but leave it to come off in its own time.

You must keep your face moisturized at all times make sure you apply it several times a day to prevent cracking. Water will do no harm but soap should be avoided. Calendula is excellent when used as a facial sauna or to make herbal or floral waters

Once you have a face peel it is best you use a sunscreen for at least three months after. Then again if you have had a face peel you do not want to undo the work, so always wear sunscreen.

Chemical peeling can be repeated after three months, but this is not usually necessary. It can be repeated at any time in the future and will not harm the skin.