As we enter into our mature adult years, several factors begin to affect our facial appearance. Dull skin tone and uneven complexion are the result of pollutants, loss of collagen production, and gravity. Fortunately, there are cosmetic treatments available to combat these signs of aging.

Chemical peels are one of the most effective means of turning back the clock and rejuvenating the skin to its youthful appearance. Unlike heat treatments that can damage the healthy skin layers, chemical peels strip away the older, upper dermal layers and promote new, even-toned skin growth. We encourage anyone with problem skin to investigate this effective treatment procedure.

The Chemical Peel Process

The outer layers of skin are susceptible to environmental effects. The epidermis also suffers from the long-lasting effects of acne as well as injury scars. When the cells of the epidermis divide, the new cells often inherit the problems affecting the older, mature cells. Chemical peels can help because they completely destroy the damaged layers without affecting the healthy tissue that lies beneath.

Depending on the nature of the skin problem, either a superficial peel or a deeper, penetrating peel may be necessary. The substance used to blister away the upper layers of skin is usually glycolic acid or carbolic acid.

What to Expect

After an initial consultation, we schedule a peel procedure and inform the client about how to prepare for the treatment. Avoiding direct exposure to the sun for a week or so prior to treatment may be recommended. We also need to know if any medications are being taken that could affect the health of the skin.

We first cleanse the face thoroughly. After cleansing, the acid is applied to specialized pads, and the pads are placed directly on the affected areas. After the pads are removed, there may be some flaking, and there is little to no downtime.

After the Treatment

The body responds by sending nutrients to the skin, and new growth begins almost immediately. The doctor may provide you with instructions to help with healing your skin.

Are You a Candidate for a Chemical Peel?

The most common types of discolorations treated with a chemical peel are cold sores, acne sores, and mild scarring from past cuts or other injuries. Sunburned skin can also become discolored, and many individuals who have poor skin tone due to long-term sun exposure have found a chemical peel to be the perfect solution.

Contact Dr. Beth Collins, MD today to schedule a consultation and to learn more about how a chemical peel can restore your facial skin to its youthful, healthy state. This is a cosmetic procedure that does not involve surgery, requires only minimal downtime, and has long-lasting results.