How Long Does Chemical Peel Last and Other Questions

The following article answers frequently asked questions related to chemical peels huntersville nc.

What is the goal of a chemical peel?

Chemical peels work by resurface the skin. This is done by inducing a controlled wound and therefore removing the superficial top layers of the skin. Chemical peels promote a healthy, new top layer of skin and improve skin issues such as hyperpigmentation, fine lines and wrinkles, uneven texture and skin impurities.

What to expect during a chemical peel?

Procedures will vary based on which type of chemical peel is being used. The skin is prepared and cleansed with a medical grade degreaser to ensure the treated area is free from any oil. The chemical agent is then applied and stays on the skin for 3 to 5 minutes. Most patients report feeling a mild stinging which typically only lasts a few minutes. Some peels are designed to self-neutralize and can stay on your skin for up to four hours.

Will there be visible peeling?

The success of the peel should not be determined by the amount of peeling you experience. Patients should focus on the end results. The amount of peeling can vary on the condition of the patient’s skin and the depth of the peel being performed. The skin is still re-growing at an accelerated rate, which will result in an improved skin tone, texture and an improvement of fine lines and uneven pigmentation.

How long will a chemical peel last?

The lasting effects of a chemical peel will depend on the type of peel (light, medium or deep) and the patient’s skin type. Light chemical peels usually lasts about 2-5 weeks and medium chemical peels typically last about 3-9 months. Deep chemical peels should only be performed one time.

What to avoid before a chemical peel?

The following should be avoided:

• Avoid waxing, electrolysis, deploritory creams, and laser hair removal one week before a peel
• Discontinue the use of any topical prescriptions two to three days before the peel. This includes Retin-A, differin or Tazorac, and any products which contain retinol, alpha hydroxyl acids (AHA), beta hydroxyl acids (BHA) or benzoyl peroxide.
• Patients who have recently had medical cosmetic facial treatments or procedures such as Laser treatments, cosmetic fillers or other surgical procedures should wait until the skin has completely healed before undergoing a chemical peel.

When should a chemical peel be avoided?

You should not have a chemical peel if you any of the following conditions apply:

• Active cold sores, herpes simplex or warts in the treatment area
• Extremely sensitive or sunburned skin
• Ese Accutane within the past 12 months
• Have recently undergone chemotherapy or radiation
• Aspirin allergies
• Pregnant or breastfeeding
• Vitiligo
• History of an autoimmune disease such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, lupus, or multiple sclerosis. Chemical peels should not be used by patients who have any condition which may compromise the immune system

What should I expect after a peel?

Your skin will feel tighter and be red immediately following the peel. Your skin may feel slightly tacky and have a yellowish or orange tinge which will subside within a few hours of treatment. This happens from the Retinoic acid which is applied to the skin. This is a self-neutralizing peel and the face should not be washed for at least four hours after the procedure.

When does the skin start to peel?

Peeling typically begins about 48-72 hours following the treatment and can last for 2-5 days. It is important to not pick off any of the peeling skin. The peeling should be minimal and easily controlled through the use of a good moisturizer. Prematurely peeling of the skin will result in dry, cracked, raw and painful skin which may turn into hyperpigmentation.

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