A chemical peel is a highly effective treatment option and can be used to treat a variety of skin changes. Furthermore, the chemical peel is available in varying intensity levels so you can choose the specific type that best suits your comfort level, budget, and personal skin goals. Who can get a chemical peel? Chemical peels are ideal for people with skin flaws including fine wrinkles, unnatural pigmentation, scars, rough skin, and precancerous growths. It is important to remember that different peel techniques are utilized for different degrees of problems. A consultation with you doctor will allow you time to discuss your health history, current goals, and realistically plan out a strategy to combat the changes you wish to see in your skin. But remember, a chemical peel does not serve as a substitute for a face lift or other cosmetic surgery. Make sure you discuss your current condition and goals with your doctor so that you get the most out of your treatments and funds. Chemical Peel Types and Purposes Alphahydroxy Acids (AHA) AHA's are the least intense of the solutions used for chemical peels and are used to perform light peels. This form is used to smooth rough, dry skin, improve textures of sun-damaged skin, helps control acne, and can be used as a TCA pre-treatment. In addition, AHA can be mixed with certain agents to improve pigment problems. However, since AHA is so mild a series of treatments might be needed to achieve the desired results. There are few post-treatment considerations beyond regular use of sunscreen. Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) TCA is used primarily for medium-depth peels and takes a step further in treatment than AHA's. Like AHA, TCA is used to help smooth rough skin and even out wrinkles that rest on the surface. This treatment is also effective in removing superficial blemishes and correcting pigment nonconformities. TCA is safe to use on other parts of the body including the neck so applications go beyond the facial region. Since TCA is more potent than AHA, pre-treatment might be given with Retin-A or AHA creams to prepare the skin for the solution. This procedure benefits your schedule since it takes just 10-15 minutes to complete although repeat treatments might be necessary to achieve maximum results. TCA is also recommended for darker-skinned patients. Healing is quick though as with AHA sunscreen is strongly advised for several months post-treatment. Phenol Phenol is the strongest of the solutions used for chemical peels and proper considerations need to be made prior to choosing this form of treatment. Phenol is used for patients who will benefit from a deep peel and usually includes people with coarse wrinkles, extensive sun damage, and pre-cancerous growths. Due to its strength, Phenol is not to be used on areas other than the face and it can cause discoloration of pigment if used incorrectly. In addition, the procedure takes longer, about an hour and recovery time is longer as well. Paying proper attention to the post-treatment instructions provided by your doctor will help prevent any adverse side effects or discomfort. As with the other forms, sunscreen is a must for several months after treatment and additional precautions are recommended. Before choosing the chemical peel that you want to have performed, make sure you discuss your options, risks, and expectations with an experienced and trustworthy cosmetic surgeon. Falling into the wrong hands can permanently scar you for life financially, emotionally, and physically. But if you choose this route you will undoubtedly revel in the after effects with a smoother, more youthful looking face and a higher level of confidence to match that glowing smile.
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3/22/2010 2:21:50 AM 38.107.191.116