The aging process slows the manner in which dead skin cells slough off. The net result is the skin does not appear as vibrant as it did when a person was younger. A chemical peel is a non-surgical treatment that eliminates the top layer of skin. The treatment improves the overall appearance of a person’s skin.
You can undergo a light, medium or deep chemical peel, depending on the state of your skin. A chemical peel is designed to even the texture and color of a person’s skin. It also improves the appearance of sun-damaged skin and addresses uneven pigmentation as well as wrinkles.
Unlike more invasive skin treatments, no anesthesia or sedation is required for a chemical peel. Although a person may experience some discomfort during the treatment, it is typically minimal. A light or medium chemical peel has a minimal recovery process. A deep chemical peel has a bit more involved recovery process, due mostly to tenderness and redness of the skin after the treatment. A deep chemical peel has long-lasting effects and can address wrinkles on the patient’s face.
A chemical peel can be performed at the office of a cosmetic plastic surgeon. A light or medium peel involves the application of a chemical solution, either across the entire face or at specific locations. A deep peel involves the vigorous rubbing of a chemical solution into the patient’s skin.
No ointment is necessary after a light or medium peel. In the case of a deep chemical peel, the face is covered with petroleum jelly and a protective ointment. Patients can return to everyday tasks following a light or medium peel. Patients can expect a couple days of downtime following a deep peel, in part because the petroleum jelly and protective ointment need to be in place for about 48 hours.
Before undergoing a chemical peel, patients desiring this treatment should meet with Dr. Schwarcz to discuss which type of peel makes the most sense, considering that individual’s needs and objectives. During the initial consultation, the patient needs to provide his or her medical history, including any prescriptions being used.
