Chemical peels can be an excellent nonsurgical treatment for diminishing imperfections of the face, neck, upper chest and back, and other body areas. A number of skin problems can be corrected or lessened with chemical peels:
The Variety of Chemical Peels
Chemical peels come in a variety of forms and in different strengths. Their uses depend on the problem to be addressed, the type of skin a patient has, the "downtime" a patient can tolerate, and a number of other factors. As a board-certified plastic surgeon and member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, Dr. Arrington can tell you which chemical peel or other procedure would work best for your skin problem.
The light to moderate chemical peels generally use AHA (alpha hydroxy acids) such as glycolic, fruit, or lactic acid to gently peel away the skin's top layers. These peels may be applied more than once for the best result. A TCA (trichloroacetic acid) peel is stronger and works more deeply than AHA peels.
The AHA and TCA Chemical Peel Technique
If it is decided that a chemical peel is a good option for you, Dr. Arrington will apply the chemical peel of the appropriate strength to your skin, using a sponge or swab. The depth of the peeling action will depend in part on how much chemical peel solution is applied and how long it is left on.
No anesthesia is needed; you'll feel only some mild tingling or stinging after the solution is applied. With the AHA chemical peels, you can resume your normal activities immediately, with perhaps a pinker skin tone that will subside soon. After a TCA peel, you may need to restrict your activities for a few days.
Phenol Peels
Phenol peels are deep, intensive chemical peels, appropriate for people with very pronounced wrinkles from sun damage, or for treating wrinkling around the lips and chin. Phenol peels can also lessen sun damage and uneven pigmentation. After a phenol peel solution is applied, a thick coating of petroleum jelly is applied, and it rapidly forms a protective crust. This stays in place for one or two days. New skin will emerge within a few days. Although this procedure is rather intense, the results can be quite dramatic.
Contact Dr. Arrington at Atlantic Plastic Surgery today to schedule a consultation.