Superficial Chemical peeling
is growing in popularity for treatment of fine wrinkling, superficial
facial scarring, pigmentary changes and acne. This technique offers
many benefits, including great results, minimal discomfort, little
time in recovery and virtually no significant complications.
The Procedure
Special acid (trichloracetic acid) is applied to remove the outer
layers of the skin, affecting the surface appearance. Initially the
face is degreased and cleansed, conditioning the skin for an even
absorption of the chemical.
Depending on the skin reaction and sensitivity to the previous treatment,
subsequent applications may be done with stronger concentrations.
This procedure may be repeated every six weeks. The patient monitors
the severity and duration of exfoliation, or peeling, and helps decide
whether or not to increase applications.
After Effects
Immediately following treatment, most individuals will see a reddening
of the skin, followed by a whitening that usually lasts for less than
an hour, but in some instances as long as a day. The peeling is similar
to a mild sunburn. Patients have also reported feeling some stinging,
burning, itching and tightening of the skin for a few minutes to a
few hours.
Exfoliation begins on the second day and may last for three to six
days. Peeling ranges from visible to microscopic in degree. After
treatment, the skin is more delicate and sensitive. Sun exposure should
be avoided until the skin normalizes, in two to three weeks.
No permanent damage has been documented in studies of superficial
chemical peeling. Pigmentary changes may occur, but are uncommon and
last only a few days or weeks after a chemical peeling. Darker skinned
patients are prone to have more noticeable spotting, than light skinned
individuals. Those with lighter skin are more likely to experience
temporary redness after a peel.
Complications
Complications are rare. Should skin infections, irritation, allergic
reactions or cold sores appear, medical treatment is necessary. Close
adherence to instructions for skin care following a peel will help
prevent problems.
Benefits
For the patient with acne, peeling allows for the cleansing of clogged
pores, aids in scarring prevention and improves the scarred surface.
Benefits derived from treatment rival those of deeper chemical peeling
and dermabrasion, with reduced pain, costs and risks. Also, many other
acne therapies can be used in conjunction with peeling.
Natural pigmentary darkening or pigment changes caused by sun, masks,
pregnancy and birth control pills usually respond rapidly to treatment.
For patients with moderate wrinkling or shallow scarring, the results
are gratifying. Superficial peeling has only minimal effects on pits,
depressed scars, furrows and folds.
Many people can benefit from Superficial Chemical Peeling, but because
this procedure is for cosmetic purposes it is not billable to your
insurance company.
Dermatologists began using chemical peeling near the turn of the century
for therapeutic and cosmetic benefits. Advancements in techniques
and chemical agents, have made Superficial Chemical Peeling an exciting
treatment of choice for today, with more research underway.
