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Chemical Peeling
Chemical peeling is a cosmetic procedure that helps improve the appearance of the skin and reduce various issues such as wrinkles, fine lines, and uneven skin tone. In this article, we will provide all the necessary information related to this cosmetic procedure.
What is Chemical Peeling?
Chemical peeling is a cosmetic procedure where a chemical solution is applied to the skin, causing a controlled injury that leads to the peeling of the upper layers of the skin. After the skin peels off, new, more youthful and smoother skin forms. This reduces the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and improves skin tone uniformity.
Types of Chemical Peeling
There are three types of chemical peels, determined by the dermatologist based on the purpose of the peel:
Superficial Peel
This type of peel uses mild acids such as alpha hydroxy acid to gently exfoliate the skin. It removes only the outer layer of the skin and is effective in treating and reducing skin issues such as acne, uneven skin tone, or dryness caused by sun damage.
Medium Peel
This type uses trichloroacetic acid and glycolic acid to reach the middle and outer layers of the skin, making it more effective in removing damaged skin cells. It is an effective option for addressing moderate uneven skin tone, acne scars, and mild wrinkles.
Deep Peel
The doctor recommends this type of peel to remove deeper layers of the skin. It is suitable for reducing several skin issues such as deep wrinkles and scars.
Benefits of Chemical Peeling
Chemical peeling helps reduce various skin issues and improves its appearance, such as:
- Fine lines under the eyes or around the mouth
- Wrinkles caused by sun exposure
- Certain types of acne
- Moderate skin scars
- Dark spots caused by pregnancy or birth control pills (melasma)
- Freckles and uneven skin tone
Contraindications for Chemical Peeling
This procedure is not suitable for everyone. Here are some conditions that may prevent the use of this cosmetic procedure:
- Having a skin disease or taking medications that increase skin sensitivity
- Inability to avoid sun exposure during the recovery period
A history of abnormal skin scarring
Pre-Chemical Peel Instructions and Tips
Here are some guidelines to follow before a chemical peel session:
- Avoid using products containing retinoids for one to two weeks before treatment, unless otherwise recommended by the doctor.
- Avoid hair removal using wax or chemical hair removal products.
- Inform the dermatologist about all medications you are using. If prescribed, start taking antibiotics or antiviral medications at least 24 hours before the peel.
- Do not undergo a peel on skin that has an infection or open sores.
- Avoid using Accutane for at least six months.
- Avoid tanning or direct sun exposure for two weeks before the procedure.
The doctor may suggest additional instructions, such as:
- Stop using facial scrubs a week before the procedure.
- Use special lotions like glycolic lotion to improve treatment results.
- Take antiviral medication if you have a history of fever blisters or cold sores to prevent damage around the mouth.
Post-Chemical Peel Recovery
The recovery period after this procedure depends on the depth of the peel. Here are the results and recovery times for each type:
Superficial Peel Recovery
After this type, the skin may look like a sunburn, with redness followed by peeling that lasts between three to seven days. More peels may be needed every two to five weeks to achieve the desired result. During this period, you can:
- Apply cream or lotion until the skin heals. After healing, use sunscreen daily.
- Use makeup after the skin heals.
Medium Peel Recovery
After this type, the skin may experience complications such as redness and swelling that may persist or worsen within 48 hours. Blisters may form, and peeling lasts from 7 to 14 days. During this period, you can:
- Avoid direct sun exposure until the skin heals and use sunscreen daily afterward.
- Take antiviral medication for 10 to 14 days.
- Apply makeup 5 to 7 days after the peel.
- Medium-depth peels may be needed every 6 to 12 months to maintain results.
Deep Peel Recovery
The skin is covered with a surgical dressing after a deep peel, which is removed after a few days. The skin heals within 14 to 21 days. During this period, you can:
- Avoid sun exposure until the skin heals.
- Take antiviral medication for 10 to 14 days.
- Avoid using makeup until 14 days after the peel.
- Apply moisturizer daily as per the doctor’s instructions to keep the skin hydrated and prevent scarring.
Potential Complications of Chemical Peeling
Here are some potential complications of chemical peels:
- Redness and Swelling:These are common signs during the recovery period, especially after medium or deep peels, and redness may last for several months.
- Skin Color Changes:Some skin types are at risk of temporary or permanent changes in skin color. Factors such as pregnancy, birth control pills, and a family history of facial discoloration increase the likelihood of abnormal pigmentation.
- Scarring:There is a possibility of scarring after a peel, but it can be effectively treated if it occurs.
- Infection:Chemical peeling can cause various infections, such as bacterial, fungal, or viral infections like herpes.
Heart, Kidney, or Liver Failure: Deep peels use phenol, which can harm the heart muscle and cause irregular heartbeats. Phenol can also damage the kidneys and liver. To limit exposure, phenol is used in small areas during deep chemical peels, with stages lasting 10 to 20 minutes each.
Chemical Peeling at Dr. Rana Gheith's Center
Dr. Rana Tariq Gheith has extensive experience in various skin peeling methods, including chemical peeling. At the center, we strive to accurately assess the condition and determine the appropriate type of chemical peel to ensure the best and most lasting results.
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