While there are home remedies advertised to treat wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, acne or enlarged pores, these products often fail to live up to their claims and offer only subtle skin improvement. A professional chemical peel performed by a skilled aesthetic provider, on the other hand, can visibly rejuvenate your skin.
At Chattahoochee Plastic Surgery, we offer a range of chemical peels for different skin needs and types. We understand that everyone’s skin is different and take an individualized approach when treating patients with chemical peels.
A chemical peel is a cosmetic treatment in which a chemical solution is applied to the skin to dissolve damaged skin cells. This process triggers cell renewal and increases collagen production. The result is younger, healthier and more vibrant-looking skin.
Chemical peels are available in different types and strengths, but the three main types of peels offered at our Namanspa are:
Using a solution containing a mild acid, such as lactic acid, a superficial peel gently exfoliates the outermost layer of the skin. A superficial peel can improve fine lines, uneven skin tone, acne and dullness with minimal downtime or skin flaking. However, multiple treatments may be needed to achieve optimal results.
Using more concentrated solutions of trichloroacetic or glycolic acid, a medium peel can penetrate the epidermis and the top part of the dermis. The goal is to treat deeper skin problems and to create long-lasting skin rejuvenation. While medium peels involve more downtime and peeling, the results are more significant.
Using phenol or trichloroacetic acid, a deep peel can go even deeper into the skin to stimulate collagen remodeling. The result is a visible rejuvenation of the skin and improvement in acne, acne scars and even pre-cancerous growths.
Chemical peels address skin problems caused by sun damage, aging or hormonal shifts. We usually treat the face with chemical peels, but the neck, chest and hands can also be treated.
Some of the skin concerns we commonly treat with chemical peels at our Namanspa are:
Superficial peels are suitable for nearly all skin types and tones.
If you have dark or sensitive skin, we may recommend against a medium or deep peel. These peels can be too aggressive for sensitive skin or trigger the development of uneven pigmentation in darker skin tones. In these circumstances, we can offer gentler and safer alternatives that will give you your desired results.
Additionally, chemical peels are not recommended for those with a history of keloid scarring and those who have taken acne medication in the past year.
A chemical peel is an in-office procedure, but it does require some preparation at home for best outcomes, as well as a downtime period after treatment. Here is what to expect if you are interested in getting a chemical peel at our center.
You will need to schedule a pre-procedure consultation with one of our board-certified plastic surgeons. They will take a careful look at your skin and review your medical history to determine if you are a good chemical peel candidate. They will then schedule your treatment.
About two to three weeks before your scheduled chemical peel, you will need to “prime” your skin for treatment. This usually entails avoiding UV light, wearing high-SPF sunscreen and applying exfoliating creams prescribed to you by your provider. Patients are also advised to avoid dermabrasion and waxing.
We perform chemical peels in our Namanspa office. You will be lying down on your back and wearing eye protection goggles. Your provider will apply a protective solution around your eyes, nose and mouth to prevent the chemical solution from pooling around these areas.
If you are getting a deep peel, we may also apply a numbing cream and give you mild sedation to keep you comfortable. The chemical peel is applied with a brush, cotton swab or spatula. You may feel mild burning or stinging as the peel starts to take effect. Depending on the type of peel, it is left on the skin anywhere from five minutes to an hour. Your provider will then use a neutralizing wash to remove the peel and apply a cool compress to calm your skin.
Your skin will look pink and irritated immediately after your peel. Your provider will apply a thin layer of protective ointment before you leave our office. You will also be given instructions on how to take care of your skin at home and what complications to look out for.
About an hour or two after your treatment, your skin may go from pink to bright red and may look irritated and swollen. Recovery time and care vary between peel strengths:
Recovery time: Up to a week. The skin will be red for a couple of days, followed by scaling.
Post-treatment instructions: Use a moisturizer daily and apply high-SPF sunscreen when going outside.
Recovery time: Up to two weeks. The skin may be red, significantly swollen and form blisters. Once the swelling subsides, the skin will start to peel and form crusts.
Post-treatment instructions: Apply petroleum jelly several times a day to maintain hydration and minimize irritation. Avoid sun exposure and use sunscreen if you need to go outside.
Recovery time: Up to 21 days. There will be intense swelling, redness and discoloration. You may experience burning, stinging and irritation for several days, which you can manage with ibuprofen. It can take several weeks before your skin is back to normal and even months for discoloration to resolve.
Post-treatment instructions: You will need to soak your skin and apply petroleum jelly up to six times daily. Avoid sun exposure for three to six months and take antiviral medicine for two weeks after treatment.
A chemical peel is a noninvasive way to rejuvenate your skin and treat a wide range of skin concerns. If you want to learn more about how this treatment can benefit you, our team at Chattahoochee Plastic Surgery is happy to answer all your questions.
To learn more about chemical peels in Columbus, GA, call Chattahoochee Plastic Surgery at (706) 494-7700 or fill out our online appointment form.
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Romans 15:13