What is a Light Chemical Peel?

Who is a candidate?

Fine wrinkles and sun-damaged skin can be improved with a light chemical skin peel. A candidate for a light chemical peel will typically have fine facial wrinkles and uneven pigmentation. The wrinkles may involve the entire face or regions such as around the mouth or under the eyes. Chemical peels vary according to their specific ingredients and their strength. Depth of peeling action may also depend on factors such as how long solutions remain on the skin and whether they are lightly applied, or more heavily or vigorously applied.

Consultation:

During the consultation, you will be asked about your particular concerns regarding your skin. This will help determine your expectations and determine whether they can be realistically achieved. After obtaining a medical and skin history, your skin will be analyzed. The skin color and degree of wrinkles will be assessed and the type of chemical peel will be discussed with you. The common superficial peels are those using alpha hydroxy acids (AHA), such as glycolic, lactic acid. Various concentrations of an AHA may be applied weekly or at longer intervals to obtain optimal results. Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) peels are stronger, and have a greater depth of penetration compared to AHA’s.

How is the procedure done?

A full-face light chemical peel takes approximately 30 minutes to perform whereas smaller regions take less time to perform. After cleansing the region to be treated, the chemical is applied. There is no anesthesia necessary as there is a mild burning sensation as the chemical is applied. Following the chemical peel, moisturizer and sunscreen is applied generously over the region treated.

Light chemical peels are performed on an outpatient basis. You may be permitted to go home after your treatment.

What are the potential complications?

Fortunately, significant complications from peels are infrequent, however, all procedures have risks. We will discuss with you, the risks, benefits and alternatives and answer all your questions. Some potential complications include infection, scarring, delayed healing and skin color changes (abnormal pigmentation).

When can I return to work?

Typically, with AHA peels you may return to work immediately whereas TCA peels may require 3-5 days for recovery depending on the depth of the peel.

How long is the healing process?

During the healing process, there will be minimal swelling and the skin will typically be red-pink and slowly fade over time depending on the depth of the peel.

It is essential to wear sunscreen and to keep the skin hydrated with moisturizers.

Light chemical peels will improve fine facial wrinkles and decrease sun-damaged skin obtaining a more refreshed, younger skin appearance. It is not uncommon to be more confident about your appearance.

You will be instructed to return to Dr. Mezrow’s office for follow-up care at prescribed intervals to monitor your progress and optimize your outcome.