Chemical Peel (Skin Refinishing)

About the Procedure

A chemical peel is usually done for cosmetic reasons. The patient wishes to enhance their appearance and boost their self-confidence. A chemical peel can remove precancerous skin growths, reduce acne scarring and even control facial acne. Sometimes this procedure is performed in conjunction with other procedures, such as a facelift. However, it is not a substitute for a facelift. It will also not prevent or slow the aging process.

A chemical peel, also known as an acid peel, uses a solution that improves and smooths the texture of the skin on the face by removing the damaged outer layers. For individuals with blemishes, wrinkles and uneven skin tone, a chemical peel provides visible benefits. The acids used in a peel include phenol, trichloroacetic acid (TCA) and alphahydroxy acids (AHAs). The exact formula may be adjusted accordingly to meet each patient's needs.

AHAs like lactic, fruit or glycolic acid peels are milder forms of peel formulas. These can produce light peels. TCAs are used in many dosages but most commonly for medium level peeling. The TCA peel recovery is shorter than with a phenol peel, the strongest of the acid peels. A phenol peel results in a very deep peel. It is used to treat deep facial wrinkles, blotchy or damaged skin as a result of sun damage or precancerous growths.

All chemical peels have a degree of uncertainty and risk. However, it is normally safe when performed by a qualified plastic surgeon. Infection and scarring, while infrequent, are possible.

What to Know About the Procedure

Patients need to discuss expectations with their plastic surgeon. The surgeon should explain in detail the peel procedure such as risks and benefits, recovery and costs. Facial peel treatments are typically not covered by medical insurance unless if needed to treat medically related problems.

The doctor uses a ten-minute solution to clean skin. A TCA peel typically takes no more than 15 minutes. Two or more facial peels may be required to get the desired result. However, these peels may be spaced out over several months. Mild TCA peels can be repeated often without time in between.

What to Know After the Procedure

After a chemical peel, the patient may experience some flaking, scaling, redness and dryness on the skin. These will disappear as the skin adjusts to treatment. A TCA peel may require mild pain medication to relieve tingling or throbbing. Protecting the skin from the sun is important after an acid peel. With a phenol peel, new skin forms in about seven to ten days. It is important to use a sunblock or irregular skin coloring may result.

If you Need to Travel Outside of your Local Hospital

Typically, a medical degree is not required to perform a chemical peel, even a strong acid peel. It’s important for patients to research their plastic surgeon’s history and to talk to them about any concerns before making the decision to follow through with this procedure. A patient’s decision between domestic and international travel for a chemical peel procedure should be based on your individual needs and the possible necessity of follow-up treatments. Clearly convey all concerns regarding travel with your doctor for best results.