Chemical Peel
The term chemical peel refers the use of a chemical solution applied to the skin to assist in the smoothing of skin texture by eliminating the damaged outer layers of skin. This process can also help alleviate mild to moderate acne, pigmentation brought about by hormones, sun damage and acne, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. While not a substitute for surgery, chemical peels can remove pre cancerous cells, soften acne scars and control acne. There are three different types of chemical peels available ranging from mild to deep.
Micro peels or sometimes called Alpha Hydroxy Acid peels (AHA) are the mildest and quickest peels available. They have minimal to no downtime and are often referred to as a lunchtime peel. They are usually done as a series of 6 spaced 2 weeks apart and are recommended to be followed up with a skincare program. Micro peels are safe to use with the most popular side effect being redness to the treated area. General cost for these peels is $60-100.
A Trichloroacetic Acid peel or TCA is a medium depth peel, penetrating deeper in the layers of the skin. This peel does nothing for acne scars and deep wrinkles. It does improve skin texture tone and color and decrease the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. These peels may require a minimal to moderate amount of downtime and generally 2-3 are needed at 3 week intervals to achieve the desired results. Popular TCA peels are the Jessner’s peel or the Blue Peel. Cost can range from $500-700 for a Blue Peel and $1500-2500 for a medium peel.
The deepest/strongest peel available is called a Phenol peel. This peel helps to eradicate coarse wrinkles, pre cancerous cells and sun damaged pigmented skin. There is moderate to severe amount of downtime and often several months are needed for complete healing. Phenol peels main disadvantage is that it impairs the skins ability to generate pigment, causing permanent whitening of the skin. This is irreversible and is therefore recommended for the fair complected. One treatment can last for more than ten years. The cost for this peel can range from $3500-$5000. |
