What To Know About Chemical Peel Hair

What To Know About Chemical Peel Hair

Chemical peels are an effective way to remove the outermost layer of skin, which leaves the skin looking smoother and younger. Chemical peels can be performed on the face, neck, chest, hands and legs. Chemical peels are most often used to treat acne scars, wrinkles and sun damage. However, chemical peels can also help treat age spots, freckles and other skin discolorations as well as remove excess oily skin.

Chemical peels are available in a variety of forms including creams, gels and lotions that can be applied directly to the skin. Some chemical peels require multiple treatments while others may only require a single treatment session. The length of time between treatment sessions varies depending on which form of chemical peel is used.

Chemical peels can help with some of the signs of aging. Your skin is mainly composed of a protein called collagen. Here are some common signs of aging caused by collagen breakdown: lines and wrinkles, dryness, rough texture, dark spots, uneven skin tone, sagging, and excess facial oil (which causes acne and dull skin). Read on to learn more on Chemical Peeling At Home and Chemical Peeling Treatment.

What To Know About Chemical Peel Hair

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Haute Beauty Expert Dr. Michele S. Green specializes in chemical peels and has been treating patients in her boutique NYC office with chemical peels for over 25 years. Naturally, she is a prime candidate to explain the ins and outs of chemical peels.

What are Chemical Peels?

Before delving into the intricacies of this highly effective cosmetic procedure, it’s important to grasp what it is. A chemical peel is a type of skin resurfacing treatment which uses a chemical solution that is applied to the skin to remove the outer layers of dead skin. Chemical peels, through chemical exfoliation, stimulate cell turnover correcting skin discoloration, unclogging the pores, giving the skin a vibrant glow. Chemical peels remove the outermost layers of the skin. Depending on the strength and type of chemical peel, the depth of the peel and effect can be controlled. This controlled injury to the skin, is what facilitates the peeling of the skin, and improvement in the texture of the skin, treating acne, acne scars, sun damage, lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation.

What are some of the reasons a patient would qualify to get a chemical peel?

Because they can treat such a variety of skin conditions, chemical peels are the most popular cosmetic procedure in dermatology. The following skin conditions can be treated by chemical peels:

• Sun damage
• Actinic Keratoses or Pre-cancers
• Hyperpigmentation
• Melasma
• Age spots
• Sunspots
• Freckles
• Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) from acne marks or improper laser treatments from IPL, Fraxel laser, or Picosure
• Skin texture issues
• Acne scars
• Acne
• Rosacea
• Fine lines and wrinkles

Are there different types of Chemical Peels? What are they?

The American Society of Dermatology has categorized three levels of chemical peels.

• Light Chemical Peels: Light chemical peels are superficial peels, and often referred to as a “lunch” time peel. This type of acid peel is perfect for someone with relatively good skin who just wants to refresh their skin. Light chemical peels can treat superficial fine lines and wrinkles in addition to correcting uneven skin tone and texture. Light chemical peels can be done as often as every two weeks for several months. Light chemical peels treat acne breakouts, skin texture, skin tone, fine lines and rough and dry skin. Light chemical peels generally require only a couple of days of recovery. Patients can go back to work immediately after a light peel since there is only some mild dryness, redness, and irrigation and your skin exfoliates the dead skin. You are left quickly with a healthy glow to your skin. Most patients have a series of light peels to rejuvenate their skin.
• Medium Chemical Peels: Medium peels are stronger peels which may require several more days of downtime (seven to 10 days) due to the moderate flaking and peeling of the skin. The chemicals used to administer these peels are a stronger type and/or concentration and are used to achieve a deeper level of chemical peel. After these medium peels there can be some increased healing time, since these peels penetrate into the dermis of the skin and can leave redness, flaking and causing, which can take over a week to resolve. Most patients have medium peels three to four times a year. Medium chemical peels treat deeper lines and wrinkles, skin discoloration and pigmentation, Melasma, acne scars and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) from acne or lasers.
• Deep Chemical Peels: Dermatologists and plastic surgeons use deep chemical peels to treat deeper lines and wrinkles,  and severe acne scarring. These peels require more downtime as they penetrate deeper into the dermal layers of the skin. Phenol acid is one of the peeling agents used in this type of deep chemical peel. Skin color is a determinant of a patient’s appropriateness for a deep chemical peel, with patients of darker skin tones not good candidates. Deep peels often require the use of a numbing agent or sedation, and should only be performed by a board-certified dermatologist. Deep chemical peels treat sun damage, deep lines and wrinkles, pre-cancers and deep acne scars. The healing time of a deep acid peel can be two to three weeks and you are bandaged immediately after the procedure. A potential side effect of improper deep peels can be blisters or burns. Immediately after all chemical peels, cool compresses are applied to the treated area. Lotion is applied for dryness and sunscreen of SPF 50 or higher is used on a daily basis. Strict sun avoidance and sunscreen use is essential during and after the chemical peel process, to maintain the positive and rejuvenated effects.

Photo Credit: Dr. Michele S. Green

Mesopeel, Melasma Treatment and Cosmelan Treatment – What are they?

A Mesopeel is a specially formulated chemical peel that addresses all types of hyperpigmentation, fades pigment, and controls melanocyte activity. Mesopeels are designed to treat and fade skin discoloration, dark spots, and photo aging, in a gentle yet efficient manner. Many delicate areas of the body, such as the axillae, groin, inner thighs, face, and under eye area, have hyperpigmentation and traditional chemical peels can be too irritating to many patients in these sensitive areas. Mesopeels, through the process of chemoexfoliation, lead to an inflammatory reaction of the reticular dermis, and induce new collagen and elastin production. Mesopeels are specially formulated to treat these sensitive areas of the body without any discomfort or downtime (only minutes).

Mesopeels can treat the face, arms, chest, buttock, back, axillae, groin, inner thighs and the area around the under eye called the Periocular.

Melasma is one of the most common skin conditions associated with brown or gray-brown patches of skin that are darker than the rest of the face. Despite its commonality, the cause for this condition is still unknown. The dark patches of skin that are related to Melasma are typically found on the forehead, cheeks, and the upper lip. Melasma has been found to be linked to an overproduction of melanin in concentrated cells of the skin via melanocytes (melanin-producing cells). This skin condition can be exacerbated or triggered by a variety of factors. Regardless of gender, skin tone, and skin type, patients with melasma often tend to feel self-conscious about the cosmetic appearance of concentrated pigment patches.

The Cosmelan® peel is a professional-grade mask that is left in place for a number of hours (depending on the degree of pigmentation and skin type). The cream is easily removed at home by the patient, with a neutral gentle facial cleanser, several hours later. Cosmelan® will produce an initial “peeling” of the skin, which will leave the skin smooth and dramatically decrease the signs of facial pigmentation. Cosmelan® is a simple and safe treatment with minimal downtime. The patient returns three weeks later for a touch-up of Cosmelan® in order to treat any residual pigmentation.

Many patients suffer from hyperpigmentation and although Cosmelan was initially developed to treat melasma, Dr. Green has expanded its use to incorporate the treatment of acne scars, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) from lasers, sun spots, and sun damage and discoloration on the face, chest, and body.

How much does a chemical peel cost?

The cost for a chemical peel will vary depending on both the strength and type of chemical peel. The cost of a chemical peel can range from $400 to $600, if there is anesthesia or extensive preparation involved. A typical light chemical peel by a board-certified dermatologist generally is around 500 dollars per treatment. Spas, or clinics, with non-physician providers may be priced less and are generally performed by technicians with less cosmetic experience in different skin tones and types of chemical peels.

Are there side effects to chemical peels?

It is completely normal, and even expected, to experience dryness and flaking for several days to a week, depending on the depth of the chemical peel. The use of moisturizers and lotions will treat these side effects. When chemical peels are performed by inexperienced and unlicensed providers, the risks and side effects increase. There is the risk of infection and/or scarring from the chemical peel, especially if the wrong type of chemical peel is performed for a specific skin tone. There is also a risk of hyperpigmentation and permanent hypopigmentation, or lack of pigment. Infection is also a risk from a chemical peel.

Chemical Peeling At Home

Despite the slightly scary sounding name — chemical and peel don’t exactly sound like what you might want on your face — chemical peels are actually one of the best treatments you can undergo to treat stubborn acne scars. 

In case you’re not convinced by the incredible before-and-after photos of chemical peel clients, this guide exists to get you on the glowy-skin bandwagon. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about chemical peels for acne scars. 

What do chemical peels do? 

Fun fact: Chemical peels do involve chemicals, but they don’t really involve peeling of skin. Instead, chemical peels consist of a solution that deeply exfoliates the outer layer of your skin. This causes the dead skin cells on your top layer of skin to rapidly shed, revealing the new, smooth layer underneath. On top of the exfoliation, chemical peels induce new collagen production, an important protein that makes up about 75% of your skin and keeps it looking young, tight, and fresh. 

How do chemical peels work for acne scars? 

Chemical peels reduce the appearance of acne scars by reducing overall hyperpigmentation, or areas of your skin with deeper or darker color. Chemical peels also smooth the outer surface of your skin, reducing any bumpy textures. 

The exact mechanism of a chemical peel on your acne scars depends on the severity of your scarring, as well as the type of scarring. There are two types of acne scars: atrophic and hypertrophic. Atrophic acne scars are indented or depressed, while hypertrophic acne scars are raised. 

Chemical peels are better at treating atrophic scars than hypertrophic scars, though a professionally administered series of chemical peels can potentially eliminate both types. Hyperpigmentation, while technically not a form of scarring, is the easiest form of post-acne skin trauma to treat with chemical peels. 

What to expect during and after a chemical peel

At Rochester Laser Center, our aestheticians use SkinCeuticals chemical peels, which they customize based on your particular skin situation. Depending on the severity of your acne scars, your Rochester Laser Center aesthetician may recommend a light or mild chemical peel. Deep chemical peels generally aren’t recommended for acne scars. 

At your appointment, you lie comfortably in a beauty chair while your aesthetician performs the chemical peel. Your aesthetician cleans your face and protects your eyes and hair. Then, the chemical peel solution is brushed onto your face. You may experience a tingling sensation and coldness. If your peel is more intense, you may feel a slight burning sensation, kind of like the way Icy Hot® feels when you apply it to sore muscles. 

What happens after your chemical peel depends on the type of peel you received, plus your skin’s individual tolerance to it. Some patients experience redness and sensitivity, while others feel just fine. You may need a few days of downtime where you don’t get any direct sun exposure and you limit exercise. Don’t worry: Your aesthetician makes sure you leave the clinic feeling confident about how to take care of your skin after a chemical peel. 

Chemical Peeling Treatment

• chemical peels are used to remove damaged skin cells, revealing healthier skin underneath
• there are different types of peels: light, medium, and deep

Safety:

• when conducted by a board-certified dermatologist, plastic surgeon, licensed healthcare provider, or trained skin care specialist, chemical peels are exceptionally safe
• it’s essential to follow your provider’s postop instructions carefully

Convenience:

• light chemical peels do not require much down time
• medium and deep chemical peels can require two to three weeks of recovery time
• the procedures can last anywhere from 30 minutes to 90 minutes

Cost:

• the cost of chemical peels depends on the type of peel you get
• the average cost of a chemical peel is $673

What are chemical peels?

Chemical peels are cosmetic treatments that can be applied to the face, hands, and neck. They’re used to improve the appearance or feel of the skin. During this procedure, chemical solutions will be applied to the area being treated, which causes the skin to exfoliate and eventually peel off. Once this happens, the new skin underneath is often smoother, appears less wrinkled, and may have less damage.

There are a number of reasons people may get chemical peels. They may be trying to treat a variety of things, including:

• wrinkles and fine lines
• sun damage
• acne scars
• hyperpigmentation
• scars
• melasma
• uneven skin tone or redness

What type of chemical peels can I get?

There are three different types of chemical peels that you can get. These include:

• Superficial peels, which use mild acids like alpha-hydroxy acid to gently exfoliate. It only penetrates the outermost layer of skin.
• Medium peels, which use trichloroacetic or glycolic acid to reach the middle and outer layer of skills. This makes it more effective for removing damaged skin cells.
• Deep peels, which fully penetrate the middle layer of the skin to remove damaged skin cells; these peels often use phenol or tricholoracetic acid.

How much do chemical peels cost?

Chemical peels are almost always considered a cosmetic procedure, and insurance rarely covers it. You’ll be paying for the procedure out of pocket. Your initial consultation visit, however, may be covered by insurance.

The cost of the procedure will vary depending on factors like location, expertise of the provider, and what type of peel you want to get. Light peels can cost as low as $150, and deep peels can cost $3,000 or more (specifically if it requires anesthesia, or in-patient stays). According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the current average cost of a chemical peel is $673.

How is a chemical peel done?

Chemical peels are typically done in-office; deep peels may be done in an outpatient surgical facility. Before the procedure, they will likely have you tie back your hair. Your face will be cleaned, and eye protection like goggles or gauze may be applied.

Your doctor may numb the area with a topical anesthetic, especially if you’re receiving a deep peel. For deep peels, your doctor may also use a regional anesthetic, which will numb large areas. They are particularly likely to do this if you’re having your face and neck treated. For deep peels, you’ll also be given an IV, and your heart rate will be closely monitored.

Light peel

During a light peel a cotton ball, gauze, or brush will be used to apply a chemical solution like salicylic acid to the area being treated. The skin will start to whiten, and may have a slight stinging sensation. Once complete, the chemical solution will be removed or a neutralizing solution will be added.

Medium peel

During a medium chemical peel, your doctor will use a gauze, special sponge, or a cotton-tipped applicator to apply the chemical solution to your face. This may contain glycolic acid or trichloroacetic acid. A blue color may be added to the trichloroacetic acid, commonly known as a blue peel. The skin will begin to whiten, and your doctor will apply a cool compress to the skin. You may feel stinging or burning for up to 20 minutes. No neutralizing solution is needed, though they may give you a hand-held fan to cool your skin. If you’ve had the blue peel you will have a blue coloring of your skin that may last for several days after the peel.

Deep peel

During a deep chemical peel, you will be sedated. The doctor will use a cotton-tipped applicator to apply phenol to your skin. This will turn your skin white or gray. The procedure will be done in 15-minute portions, to limit the skin exposure to the acid.

How do you prepare for a chemical peel?

Before your procedure, you’ll first have a consultation with the skin care specialist. During this visit, they’ll help you determine what the best treatment option is for you. They’ll let you know the details about the specific peel you’ll be getting, and they’ll ask about anything that could interfere with the peel. This may include whether you’ve taken acne medication, and information about whether or not you scar easily.

Before a chemical peel, you must:

• not use any type of retinol or retin-A topical medication for at least 48 hours
• inform your skin care specialist about any medications you take
• not have been on Accutane for at least six months

Your doctor may also recommend that you:

• take an antiviral medication if you have a history of fever blisters or cold sores to prevent a breakout around the mouth
• use special lotions to improve treatment, like glycolic acid lotion
• use a retinoid cream to prevent skin darkening
• stop waxing, epilating, or using depilatory hair removal products the week before the peel. You should also avoid hair bleaching.
• stop using facial scrubs and exfoliants the week before the peel.
• arrange for a ride home, especially for medium or deep chemical peels, which will require you to be sedated.

If your doctor prescribes a painkiller or sedative, take it according to their instructions; you’ll likely have to take it before you come to the office.

What are the risks and possible side effects of a chemical peel?

Common side effects are temporary, and include redness, dryness, stinging or burning, and slight swelling. With deep peels, you may permanently lose the ability to tan.

Chemical peels can, however, have more serious risks and dangerous side effects that can be permanent. These include:

• Darkening or lightening of the skin color. These can be more common in people with darker skin.
• Scarring. This can be permanent.
• Infections. People with herpes simplex may experience flares following a treatment. Very rarely, chemical peels can cause fungal or bacterial infections.
• Heart, liver, or kidney damage. The phenol used in deep peels can actually damage the heart muscle, kidneys, and liver, and cause irregular heartbeats.

What to expect after

Recovery time varies depending on which chemical peel you received.

Light chemical peels

Recovery time is about four to seven days. Your skin may temporarily be lighter or darker.

Medium chemical peels

Your skin will recover about five to seven days after a medium chemical peel, though you may have redness that persists for months. Your skin will initially swell, and then form crusts and brown blotches before revealing new skin.

Deep chemical peels

Deep chemical peels will cause severe swelling and redness, with burning or throbbing sensations. It’s common for the eyelids to swell shut. It will take about two weeks for the new skin to develop, though white spots or cysts may last several weeks. It’s common for redness to last for several months.

During recovery, follow your doctor’s postop instructions faithfully. They’ll give you specific instructions for how often to wash your face and moisturize, and which products you should use to do so. Try to stay out of the sun until your skin has healed, and avoid using makeup or other cosmetics until your doctor gives you the go-ahead. You can use ice packs for 20 minutes at a time, or a cool fan, to help relieve discomfort at home.