Chemical Peel

Chemical Peel

Chemical peeling is a process which treats surface facial imperfections such as blemishes, wrinkles, and uneven pigmentation. Unlike facelifts or The SmartLiftTM, which affect the underlying structure of the lower face, a chemical peels improves the surface texture of the skin. Chemical peels may also remove pre-cancerous skin growths, soften acne facial scars, and even control acne. There are several chemicals (including phenol, trichloroacetic acid, or alphahydroxy acid), from which Dr. Sessa can choose depending on your facial condition, coloring and skin type, and the results you seek.

The Results

Alphahydroxy Acids (AHAs) are the mildest of chemical peel formulas, providing smoother, brighter-looking skin with the shortest recovery time. AHA peels, which take approximately ten minutes to perform, may be used to treat fine wrinkling, areas of dryness, uneven pigmentation and acne. For some patients, the application of an AHA-based face wash or cream once or twice a day at home will be sufficient to accomplish the desired goal. Dr. Sessa may add Retin-A or a bleaching agent to your at-home treatment schedule. Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA) is most commonly used for medium-depth peeling to treat fine surface wrinkles, superficial blemishes and pigment problems.

The procedure usually takes no longer than 15 minutes, and you may need more than one TCA peel to achieve the desired result. Moderate discomfort and mild swelling will subside within the first week. In about a week to ten days, your new skin will become apparent and you should heal sufficiently to return to your normal activities.

Phenol is the strongest of the chemical solutions and produces a deep peel for patients with coarse facial wrinkles, areas of blotchy or damaged skin caused by sun exposure, or pre-cancerous growths. Patients can generally expect dramatic, long-lasting results. A full-face phenol chemical peel generally takes one or two hours to perform, while a phenol peel to a smaller facial region (perhaps the skin above the upper lip) may take only 10 or 15 minutes. A single treatment usually suffices.

With a phenol peel, new skin will begin to form in about seven to ten days. Your face will be very red at first, gradually fading to a pinkish color over the following weeks to months. About two weeks after treatment, you may return to work and resume normal activities.