Facts on Facial Peels

Facial peels are performed by applying chemicals to the face that remove the damaged outer layers of the skin or epidermis. These peels can range from a mild type that can be used at home to a strong chemical peel that must be performed by a doctor.

Alphahydroxy Acid

Alphahydroxy acids or AHAs include glycolic, lactic and fruit acids and are the mildest types of acid used in chemical facial peels. This type of facial peel can be used to treat dry skin, fine wrinkles, acne or blotchy skin by gently peeling away the top layers of epidermis. AHA facial peels can be applied weekly or the acid can be combined with facial cleansers and applied daily as part of your skincare regimen.

Trichloroacetic Acid

Trichloroacetic acid or TCA is a medium-strength chemical used in facial peels. TCA is used to treat blemishes, wrinkles mild to moderate sun damage, and uneven pigmentation problems that cannot be effectively treated by alphahydroxy acid. A TCA peel may need to be repeated after two to three weeks in order to achieve the desired results.

Phenol

A phenol peel is the strongest facial peel available. Phenol peels can be used to treat deep wrinkles, scars, discoloration, sun damage, or to remove precancerous growths. A phenol peel can take up to two hours to perform and you may experience mild discomfort and redness of the affected area during the two-week recovery period.

Effects

After an alphahydroxy acid facial peel, skin may appear red, dry or irritated. These side effects should not be severe enough to prevent you from engaging in normal daily activities. A TCA facial peel may cause swelling and mild discomfort, which should subside within one week. Phenol facial peels cause redness and discomfort which may last up to two weeks while new skin begins to grow.

Benefits

Chemical facial peels can be used to treat fine lines, acne, sun damage, uneven pigmentation, scars and precancerous growths. A chemical peel can make skin look younger and improve your overall appearance. Facial peels are usually done on an outpatient basis and the mild peels can even be performed during a lunch hour.

Warning

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the chemicals used in facial peels can make skin more sensitive to the sun. Use sunscreen after a peel to protect skin from sun damage.

References

• American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
• American Society of Plastic Surgeons