Acne should not be treated with deep chemical peels.
There are many different types of facial scrubs available for people seeking healthier, younger-looking skin. A deep chemical peel is a type of treatment that involves harsh chemicals and acids that intentionally cause damage to the skin, forcing the skin to heal and renew its surface. The treatment is used to remedy existing damage such as scars and deep wrinkles.
A deep chemical peel, which can take between half an hour and 2 hours to complete, should be done by a professional.
Acetone, phenol, and trichloroacetic acid are some of the chemicals that a deep chemical peel may contain. The ingredients cause a controlled chemical burn of the upper layer of the skin. As wounds heal, the skin’s surface is renewed, resulting in a smoother appearance.
Known as the strongest form of facial peel, the procedure can be performed on the entire face or on isolated spot areas, such as around the lips. A full professional chemical peel is usually performed after or before another separate operation, such as eyelid surgery or a face lift. The treatment is considered too dangerous to be performed around the eyes.
The salicylic acid in chemical peels can be derived from willow bark.
Fine lines, freckles, liver spots, and other skin discolorations can be treated with a salicylic acid chemical peel. Sun damage, particularly precancerous spots, can be largely or completely eliminated with treatment. Old scars can also be treated with bleaching.
People with minor wrinkles or few skin problems are not considered candidates for a deep chemical peel. Minor wrinkles and acne should not be treated with a deep chemical peel; a light chemical peel can be used instead. To qualify for the procedure, the skin must be severely damaged. For those who qualify, deep chemical peels cannot be performed too often, as overuse of the procedure can cause severe skin damage. Regulations for chemical peel procedures vary by location.
A deep chemical peel intentionally damages the skin, forcing it to heal and renew its surface.
Also known as a phenol peel, this procedure takes anywhere from half an hour to two hours to complete, depending on the amount of surface area to be treated. The acid solution is applied to the selected area. The eyes, lips, and eyebrows should be avoided for proper chemical peel safety. During this application, a burning sensation may occur.
After the deep chemical peel itself, water is applied to neutralize the acid on the face. After a waiting period, Vaseline is coated on the face, ensuring the safety of the healing scab that develops over the burn. The jelly, or tape, stays in place for up to two days. Medications are usually prescribed for any pain that results from treatment.
A new pink skin begins to form within a few days. The pink, which resembles a sunburn, fades later. Swelling, sensitive skin, and sensitivity to light are common. Patients should stay out of the sun after application as well as use sunscreen regularly once fully healed. Patients can usually resume work and normal activities within two weeks.
The effects of chemical peeling can be very dangerous. People with heart problems should avoid this beauty procedure, as the exfoliating agents can cause cardiac arrhythmias. For herpes patients, this peel can trigger herpes outbreaks, resulting in permanent scarring. The cost of a deep chemical peel is also considered to be much more expensive than a typical facial peel.