Chemical Peels

Chemical Peels Chemical peels remove damaged outer layers of skin on the face to smooth texture, reduce scarring, and remove blemishes to produce healthy, glowing skin. There are two types of chemical peels, ranging from mild to strong - alphahydroxy acids (AHAs) and trichloroacetic acid (TCA)  - and formula strengths are tailored to each patient. Peels can be combined with other procedures such as facelifts for a younger look. A series of the AHA peels is recommended for optimal results.

Types of Chemical Peels

AHAs are the gentlest of the two types of chemical peel. They consist of a group of glycolic, lactic and fruit acids that smooth and brighten skin by treating fine wrinkles, dryness, uneven pigmentation and acne. AHAs peels are typically done in a series of 4-6 applied once a month by the nursing staff.  AHA may also be  in a milder concentration with a cream or cleanser to be used daily.  Treatment takes 30 minutes or less and are often referred to as "lunch time peels". Patients may choose AHAs if they do not want the lengthy recovery time of a TCA peel. Occasionally AHAs, Retin-A (a containing Vitamin A) or hydroquinone (a bleach solution) are used to thin the skin and even its tone as a pre-treatment for TCA peels.

TCAs are commonly used for medium-depth peeling (though depth is adjustable) to treat fine surface wrinkles, superficial blemishes and pigment problems, sometimes in combination with AHAs. TCAs are the preferred chemical solution for darker-skinned patients and may be used on the neck and other areas of the body.

Chemical Peels Procedure

Chemical peels may be performed in a plastic surgeon's office, office-based facility or outpatient surgical center. A TCA peel is performed by the plastic surgeon under moderate sedation.

In an AHA peel, the skin is cleaned and the solution applied; there is no need for "after-peel" ointment or covering.  During TCA peel the skin is cleansed and solution is applied, which may cause a brief stinging sensation.

After the Procedure

AHA peels can cause temporary stinging, redness, irritation and flaking or crusting.  TCA peels can result in tingling or throbbing, reddened skin, a crust or scab, and significant swelling which lasts about a 7 to 10 days, depending on the strength of the peel used.   All procedures require adequate sun protection for your new skin.

Both treatment types carry potential risks such as infection and scarring. In addition to the after-effects listed above, TCA peels may produce some unintended color changes in the skin.

To learn more about our Plastic Surgery Services, please contact us at (503) 655-9727 today to schedule an appointment.