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A chemical peel might something that you are considering especially if you have damaged skin caused through over exposure to the sun, if you suffer with acne, or if you simply want a smoother, more even toned skin with fewer wrinkles. Many proponents of the treatment point out that it is very beneficial if you want your skin to look smoother and younger. The procedure involves the use of a chemical solution that is used to smooth the texture of the skin by removing the damaged outer layers. It is said to provide improvement for the following skin problems: Acne and the scars that can and oftentimes do result. Sun spots also known as age spots which are dark, flat spots on the skin that resemble freckles. - Fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes and mouth. - Freckles and other types of irregular skin pigmentation. - Rough or scaly patches of skin. - Scars and sun damaged skin. Before you choose to have a chemical peel you should understand how it works. First of all chemical solutions are applied to your face or other area being treated and these chemicals are: 1. Phenol 2. Trichloroacetic Acid 3. Alphahydroxy Acids These chemicals have specific functions and are adjusted to each person's needs. You might have a light, medium, or deep peel depending upon your specific requirements. Light peels are the least uncomfortable but need to be repeated if the effects are to be maintained. Most people report mild discomfort during a light peel. Medium peels on the other hand are for acne scars, deeper wrinkles, and uneven skin pigmentation. The chemicals that are used remove the skin cells from not only the outer layer of the epidermis but also the upper part of the middle layer. In this instance trichloroacetic acid will be used which is on occasion combined with glycolic acid. Again the face is cleansed and the chemical is applied. The difference is that it will not be left on for as long as in the instance of a light peel. There is a likelihood of a burning or stinging sensation. Very often the area that is treated turns grey in color. When the treatment is complete the chemicals are neutralized using a saline compress. In the days following the treatment the skin is likely to turn red and it can take up to 1 ½ months before the skin looks normal again. These peels are repeated every 6 - 12 months. Deep peels do provide the most noticeable results however the recovery period is considerably longer. They are recommended for people with deep wrinkles, sun damaged skin, scars, pre-cancerous growths, and uneven pigmentation. A very strong chemical is used called Phenol. It is able to reach the lower dermal layer of the skin. This peel is known to be very uncomfortable and very often you will need a local anesthetic and a sedative to manage the pain and discomfort. Unlike with the other two types of peels we have looked at this one requires pre-treatment spanning 2 months. You will be given a sedative and a local anesthetic that freezes the face which is cleansed thoroughly. The chemical is applied and has to remain on the face for 30 minutes to 2 hours before being neutralized with water. Once the skin has rested for about 60 minutes a layer of petroleum jelly is applied which you might need to leave on for up to 48 hours afterwards. Some healthcare providers will choose to cover the skin with adhesive tape instead of using the petroleum jelly. Depending upon which chemical peel you have you can expect discomfort in varying degrees. Deep peels for example will produce peeling, redness, swelling, and pain for a number of days after the treatment. You will more than likely require painkillers to manage the pain. The redness is likely to remain evident for up to 12 weeks following the treatment although the benefits are reportedly long lasting. If you would like information on safer alternatives to chemical peel I invite you to visit my website at http://www.naturalbeautyandskincare.com/, where I will show you a range of natural skincare products using active ingredients that deliver excellent results. By Kalpana Rajagopalan - passionate about all natural and non-invasive skincare.
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