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Chemical Peels

Chemical peels remove damaged outer layers of skin to make skin smoother, reduce scarring and remove blemishes. Ranging from mild to strong, there are three types of chemical peels: alphahydroxy acid (AHA), trichloroacetic acid (TCA) and phenol. The strength of each peel is tailored to the patient. Peels can be combined with other procedures, such as facelifts, for additional improvement to skin. Chemical peels may be covered by insurance if they are performed for medical rather than cosmetic reasons.

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Chemical peels are performed in a plastic surgeon's or dermatologist's office, or an outpatient surgical center. Anesthesia is not required because TCA and phenol have anesthetic properties, and AHA produces only a slight stinging.

Chemical Peel Procedure

During a TCA or phenol peel, the skin is cleansed and the solution is applied, which may cause a brief stinging sensation. Petroleum jelly or a waterproof adhesive tape may be put on the skin following a phenol peel. During an AHA peel, the skin is cleansed and the solution applied; there is no need for post-peel ointment or covering.

Side Effects of Chemical Peels

A phenol or TCA peel can result in tingling or throbbing, reddened skin, a crust or scab, and significant swelling that lasts, depending on the strength of the peel used, about a week. With a phenol peel, eyes may be swollen shut at first, and the patient may be put on a liquid diet and advised to keep talking to a minimum. Any tape used is removed after a day or two. AHA peels can cause temporary stinging, redness and irritation, as well as flaking or crusting. After a chemical peel, it is essential that the skin be protected from the sun.

Additional Resources

  • Who is a good candidate?
    Good candidates for Botox/Dysport are individuals seeking to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, typically caused by repetitive facial movements. It's suitable for adults of all skin types who are in good overall health and have realistic expectations.
  • When will I see the results?
    You may start noticing improvements within a few days after treatment, with optimal results typically appearing within 1-2 weeks.
  • How long do results last?
    The results of Botox treatment usually last around 3-4 months. However, this can vary depending on factors such as individual metabolism, the treated area, and the dosage administered.
  • Is there any downtime or side effects?
    Botox injections typically involve minimal downtime, allowing you to resume normal activities immediately afterward. Some common side effects may include temporary redness, swelling, or bruising at the injection sites, which usually resolve within a few days.
  • What should I do before and after this treatment?
    Before your Botox treatment, it's recommended to avoid blood-thinning medications, alcohol, and strenuous exercise. Afterward, you should avoid rubbing or massaging the treated area for a few hours and refrain from lying down for the first few hours to prevent the spread of the toxin.
  • What can I expect during this treatment?
    During the Botox treatment, your provider will cleanse the area and may apply a topical anesthetic to minimize discomfort. Using a fine needle, they will carefully inject Botox into the targeted muscles. The procedure typically takes around 10-15 minutes, and you may experience a slight stinging sensation or mild discomfort, which is temporary.
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