Chemical Peel

Sun exposure, acne or the process of aging can cause your skin tone to appear uneven, wrinkled, spotted or even scarred. A Chemical Peel is a good solution to smoother and younger-looking skin, by removing the damaged outer layers. Also called chemexfoliation or derma peeling, a Chemical Peel is one of the least invasive ways to improve the appearance of your skin and give it a more youthful glow. Although a Chemical Peel is primarily performed on the facial area, it can also be applied improve the skin on your neck and hands as well.

Chemical peels utilize a chemical solution to smooth the texture of your skin by removing the damaged outer layers and stimulate the growth of new skin cells. Following treatment, your skin will look brighter and your skincare products will be absorbed better. There are different types of peels; glycolic, salicylic, TCA (trichloroacetic acid) or phenol, which differ in strength, with the aggressive types providing more benefit but requiring more downtime. Our experienced Skin Care expert will assess your skin and discuss which type would best suit your needs.

Ideally, a Chemical Peel is used in conjunction with specific skin care products designed to significantly boost results. Generally, 3 treatments are recommended two to three weeks apart, followed by maintenance treatments for optimal long-term results, every one to three months.

Glycolic Acid Treatments

Glycolic Acid Treatments can offer smoother skin to people of all ages. This type of treatment works best on those with rough, sun-damaged skin. Glycolic Acids are sometimes formulated with bleaching chemicals to correct areas of uneven pigmentation.

It is important to remember that side-effects may occur even with non-surgical treatments. No serious medical problems have been associated with Glycolic Acids, but their use may cause temporary skin irritation and redness. Switching to a milder formula may remedy the problem.

The initial application of Glycolic Acid cream will include a demonstration of how to continue your skin-care routine at home. The way in which Glycolic Acid is applied to the face will depend upon the form that it’s in. The two common forms are cream or facial wash, both contain approximately 12 percent Glycolic Acid, which helps to slough away dry, sun-damaged skin on the surface of the face. Each also contains a special moisturizer and, if needed, a bleaching agent. In most cases, the acid is applied to the face twice daily, either by smoothing on the cream or using the facial wash. In your follow-up visits, the trength of the acid formulation or the frequency of its use may be adjusted after evaluating your skin’s condition.

Following Treatment: It is normal to experience some redness, irritation, itching, stinging, or skin dryness once you begin to use Glycolic Acid. However, you can expect these symptoms to gradually disappear as the skin adjusts to the treatment.

Caring for your new skin: Because Glycolic Acid thins the outer layer of the skin, you will need to consistently use a sun-block to protect yourself from ultraviolet light, and you may have to discontinue using certain products or cosmetics on you face.

Though the degree of change varies from person to person, continued use of Glycolic Acid preparations will yield subtle improvements in the texture and tone of your skin. In most cases, Glycolic Acid users notice an overall freshness and smoothness. After a while, pigmented blotches fade or disappear as the bleaching effect begins to work. The time necessary for visible results depends on the degree of pigmentation and individual circumstances. Some patients see results in as little as six weeks.

Phenol Peels

We offer a deep level of skin peel that has a proven track record of safety and outstanding clinical results. Small areas of the face can be done in the office, such as wrinkles around the mouth and chin. Risks are quite low. Details of this peel should be discussed with your physician.

UPMC Stofman Plastic Surgery Group’s Board-Certified Physicians have the knowledge and extensive experience to help find the right Skin Care Solution to help you look your best. Please refer to our Skin Care Page for more details, and contact us today to schedule an appointment.