Each day, our skin cells die, flake off and are replaced by new cells from beneath.
As we age, this process happens less often. As a result, the skin becomes
wrinkled and blotchy and begins to show signs of age.
Through the application of a chemical solution used to remove dead skin cells, a
chemical peel tightens the skin and reduces wrinkling. This results in the
stimulation and production of new skin cells and restores a more youthful
appearance.
Like laser resurfacing, the chemical peel works by removing the top layers of the
skin to expose unlined, new skin underneath. Phenol, trichloroacetic acid (TCA)
and alphahydroxy acids (AHAs) are used for this purpose.
Trichloroacetic acid is most commonly used for medium-depth peeling. Fine
surface wrinkles, superficial blemishes and pigment problems are commonly
treated with TCA. The results of TCA peel are usually less dramatic than and not
as long-lasting as those of a phenol peel.
Phenol is the strongest of the chemical solutions and produces a deep peel. It is
used mainly to treat deep facial wrinkles and sun-damaged skin. Since phenol
sometimes lightens the treated areas, your skin pigmentation may determine
whether you are a candidate for this procedure. Phenol is used mainly on the face
as scarring can result from its application to other body areas.
While laser resurfacing has replaced the chemical peel to some extent in recent
years, Prof. Kirwan feels the chemical peel still has certain advantages has over
laser peeling as part of a skin program or as an adjunct to surgery.
Prof. Kirwan will be happy to discuss the advantages of the chemical peel with you
during your consultation. If you have a history of herpes, you should inform Prof. Kirwan
during your consultation.
A number of skin conditions can be improved with a chemical peel:
lines and wrinkles, particularly around the mouth and lower eyelids
increased pigmentation
acne scars
sun-damaged skin
age spots
freckles
While a chemical peel is not a substitute for a facelift is often performed with a
facelift as an additional step in the rejuvenation process.
More information for facial plastic surgery procedures.
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