PEELS

Peels

A chemical peel is a technique used to improve the appearance of the on the face, neck or hands. A chemical solution is applied to the that causes it to exfoliate and eventually peel off. The new, regenerated is usually smoother and less wrinkled than the old . The new is also temporarily more sensitive to the sun.

USES FOR CHEMICAL PEELS

1. Reduce fine lines under the eyes and around the mouth
2. Treat wrinkles caused by sun damage and aging
3. Improve the appearance of mild scars
4. Acne
5. Reduce age spots, freckles, and dark patches (melasma) Improve the look and feel of

There are three basic types of chemical peels:

1) Superficial Peels:

1. cells removed from the top layer of (epidermis)
2. Left on the for a few minutes
3. may feel tight for a couple of hours afterwards
4. Regular treatment needed to maintain the effects

2) Medium Peels:

1. cells removed from the top and middle layers of
2. Left on the for a few minutes
3. A burning or stinging sensation may be felt when the peel is applied
4. may go brown or red in the days afterwards
5. It can take up to six weeks for the to return to normal
6. Treatment is needed every 6 to 12 months to maintain the effects

3) Deep Peels:

1. Affect deeper layers of
2. A local anaesthetic and sedative may be needed
3. A freezing sensation may be felt when the peel is applied
4. Can be left on the face for 30 minutes or more, depending on the desired effect
5. Expect some peeling, redness and discomfort for a few days
6. Swelling can last up to two weeks
7. redness can last up to three months
8. Often results in lightening of the , so it's not really suitable for darker
9. It's a one-off treatment with lasting effects, so doesn't usually need to be repeated

After a peel is temporarily more sensitive to the sun, so wear sunscreen every day. It should say "broad-spectrum" on the label, meaning it protects against the sun's UVA and UVB rays. Also, it should be a physical sunscreen and be above SPF 50. Limit your time in the sun, especially between the hours of 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., and wear a wide-brimmed hat.