When people start to show the first signs of aging it can make them feel self-conscious. Some opt for cosmetic surgery to correct this problem, while others are more comfortable with a less invasive solution such as a chemical peel. When interested in the possibility of chemical peels San Diego patients must first consult a dermatologist or other practitioner to determine if this is a suitable approach for them.
Chemical peels involve the application of an acidic solution to the area of the skin being treated which will cause it to react by blistering and peeling, allowing healthy, younger-looking skin to grow in its place. Various peel depths are available, according to the solution used and the nature of the skin.
Besides the face, this technique may also be applied on the neck or hands as well. It not only minimizes fine lines, but it can also improve the appearance of minor scars, freckles, age spots, or other areas of darker pigmentation. The skin will be softer and more youthful looking after the procedure, however a broad spectrum sunscreen must be used as sensitivity to UV rays increases afterwards.
People with lighter colored skin usually obtain the best results from this procedure, although many with a darker complexion have also been pleased with the outcome. Deep creases and sagging cannot be remedied by a chemical peel and will require a different approach such as injectable fillers or a surgical lift.
Before the peel, the healthcare provider will discuss with the patient what his or her concerns and goals are for the treatment. The doctor will determine the most appropriate depth of the peel, and may prescribe the use of Retin-A or glycolic acid to prepare the skin. An antibiotic may also be prescribed to prevent infection. Patients who have recurring cold sores, or scar easily may be advised against undergoing this treatment.
Peels are performed as an outpatient procedure. The skin will first be cleansed thoroughly to prepare it, and then the peeling agent will be applied. These solutions are acidic in nature, and either one or a combination of them may be used. Since the upper layer of skin is chemically "burned" away, the patient will experience a stinging sensation for several minutes, but this will not last and can be treated with cold compresses and analgesics.
Following the peel, the skin will be tender, reddened, and eventually it will scale, much like the process that occurs after getting a sunburn. Healing times range from three to fourteen days, depending on the solution used. The skin can be protected with bandages at this time. A light peel can be repeated if desired in one to four weeks time, but a deeper one, not only six months to a year later.
Before deciding to undergo a peel, patients must expect that their initial appearance may be startling, and that it is a procedure that requires a few days of "down time", but in the end, most are quite happy with the results. Rarely, someone will experience a change in skin tone or hyper-pigmentation, but this is usually due to hormonal or genetic predisposition and is not common.
Chemical peels involve the application of an acidic solution to the area of the skin being treated which will cause it to react by blistering and peeling, allowing healthy, younger-looking skin to grow in its place. Various peel depths are available, according to the solution used and the nature of the skin.
Besides the face, this technique may also be applied on the neck or hands as well. It not only minimizes fine lines, but it can also improve the appearance of minor scars, freckles, age spots, or other areas of darker pigmentation. The skin will be softer and more youthful looking after the procedure, however a broad spectrum sunscreen must be used as sensitivity to UV rays increases afterwards.
People with lighter colored skin usually obtain the best results from this procedure, although many with a darker complexion have also been pleased with the outcome. Deep creases and sagging cannot be remedied by a chemical peel and will require a different approach such as injectable fillers or a surgical lift.
Before the peel, the healthcare provider will discuss with the patient what his or her concerns and goals are for the treatment. The doctor will determine the most appropriate depth of the peel, and may prescribe the use of Retin-A or glycolic acid to prepare the skin. An antibiotic may also be prescribed to prevent infection. Patients who have recurring cold sores, or scar easily may be advised against undergoing this treatment.
Peels are performed as an outpatient procedure. The skin will first be cleansed thoroughly to prepare it, and then the peeling agent will be applied. These solutions are acidic in nature, and either one or a combination of them may be used. Since the upper layer of skin is chemically "burned" away, the patient will experience a stinging sensation for several minutes, but this will not last and can be treated with cold compresses and analgesics.
Following the peel, the skin will be tender, reddened, and eventually it will scale, much like the process that occurs after getting a sunburn. Healing times range from three to fourteen days, depending on the solution used. The skin can be protected with bandages at this time. A light peel can be repeated if desired in one to four weeks time, but a deeper one, not only six months to a year later.
Before deciding to undergo a peel, patients must expect that their initial appearance may be startling, and that it is a procedure that requires a few days of "down time", but in the end, most are quite happy with the results. Rarely, someone will experience a change in skin tone or hyper-pigmentation, but this is usually due to hormonal or genetic predisposition and is not common.