Chemical Peels

CHEMICAL PEELS Chemical peels are the most simple and effective methods of skin rejuvenation and yet this “old is gold” tried and tested procedure has managed to hold its own in a rapidly developing aesthetic background. Peels can be classified as superficial, medium and deep based on the depth of penetration (in the skin) of the peeling agent and this determines the type of peel to be used for a specific indication. They are used to improve a host of aesthetic concerns like pigmentation, fine lines, Acne, mild to moderate sun damage and find acceptability due to their low cost, quick procedure time and very low downtime. Peels have evolved by leaps and bounds and we offer a wide range of peels targeting almost every skin concern- specialized amongst them being the Spanish masks Cosmelan and Dermamelan which are the treatments of choice in cases of hormonal pigmentation.

How is a chemical peel done?

Chemical peels are typically done in-office; deep peels may be done in an outpatient surgical facility. Before the procedure, they will likely have you tie back your hair. Your face will be cleaned, and eye protection like goggles or gauze may be applied.
Your doctor may numb the area with a topical anesthetic, especially if you’re receiving a deep peel. For deep peels, your doctor may also use a regional anesthetic, which will numb large areas. They are particularly likely to do this if you’re having your face and neck treated. For deep peels, you’ll also be given an IV, and your heart rate will be closely monitored.

Light peel

During a light peel a cotton ball, gauze, or brush will be used to apply a chemical solution like salicylic acid to the area being treated. The skin will start to whiten, and may have a slight stinging sensation. Once complete, the chemical solution will be removed or a neutralizing solution will be added.

Medium peel

During a medium chemical peel, your doctor will use a gauze, special sponge, or a cotton-tipped applicator to apply the chemical solution to your face. This may contain glycolic acid or trichloroacetic acid. A blue color may be added to the trichloroacetic acid, commonly known as a blue peel. The skin will begin to whiten, and your doctor will apply a cool compress to the skin. You may feel stinging or burning for up to 20 minutes. No neutralizing solution is needed, though they may give you a hand-held fan to cool your skin. If you’ve had the blue peel you will have a blue coloring of your skin that may last for several days after the peel.

Deep peel

During a deep chemical peel, you will be sedated. The doctor will use a cotton-tipped applicator to apply phenol to your skin. This will turn your skin white or gray. The procedure will be done in 15-minute portions, to limit the skin exposure to the acid.

How do you prepare for a chemical peel?

Before your procedure, you’ll first have a consultation with the skin care specialist. During this visit, they’ll help you determine what the best treatment option is for you. They’ll let you know the details about the specific peel you’ll be getting, and they’ll ask about anything that could interfere with the peel. This may include whether you’ve taken acne medication, and information about whether or not you scar easily.
Before a chemical peel, you must:

Not use any type of retinol or retin A topical medication for at least 48 hours.
Inform your skin care specialist about any medications you take.
Not have been on Accutane for at least six months.
Take an antiviral medication if you have a history of fever blisters or cold sores to prevent a breakout around the mouth.
Use special lotions to improve treatment, like glycolic acid lotion.
Use a retinoid cream to prevent skin darkening.