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
- Reduce fine lines under the eyes and around the mouth
- Treat wrinkles caused by sun damage and aging
- Improve the appearance of mild scars
- Acne
- 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:
- cells removed from the top layer of (epidermis)
- Left on the for a few minutes
- may feel tight for a couple of hours afterwards
- Regular treatment needed to maintain the effects
2) Medium Peels:
- cells removed from the top and middle layers of
- Left on the for a few minutes
- A burning or stinging sensation may be felt when the peel is applied
- may go brown or red in the days afterwards
- It can take up to six weeks for the to return to normal
- Treatment is needed every 6 to 12 months to maintain the effects
3) Deep Peels:
- Affect deeper layers of
- A local anaesthetic and sedative may be needed
- A freezing sensation may be felt when the peel is applied
- Can be left on the face for 30 minutes or more, depending on the desired effect
- Expect some peeling, redness and discomfort for a few days
- Swelling can last up to two weeks
- redness can last up to three months
- Often results in lightening of the , so it's not really suitable for darker
- 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.