Jacksonville Chemical Peels

What You Should Know When Considering A Chemical Peel

Our Jacksonville Chemical Peels use a chemical solution to improve and smooth the texture of the facial skin by removing its damaged outer layers. A chemical peel can be a big help for individuals with facial blemishes, wrinkles and uneven skin pigmentation. Jessner’s, Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) and alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) are used for this purpose. The precise formula used is custom blended and adjusted to achieve the specific goals of each patient. Although chemical peels may be performed in conjunction with a facelift, it is not a substitute for such surgery, nor will it prevent or slow the aging process.

The following information offers some general information about the chemical peel treatments we perform and the results you might expect. If you think or are wondering if one of our Jacksonville chemical peels might be right for you, schedule a consultation to discuss your skin condition goals and discuss the specific benefits of how a chemical peel program can wipe away the years and rejuvenate your skin to a more youthful condition and appearance.

A chemical peel is most commonly performed for cosmetic reasons; to enhance your skin’s appearance and condition, which can also improve one’s self confidence. A Chemical peel can also remove pre-cancerous skin growths, soften acne facial scars and even control acne.

Alphahydroxy acids (AHAs), such as glycolic, lactic, or fruit acids are the mildest of the peel formulas and produce light peels. These types of peels can provide smoother, brighter-looking skin for people who can’t spare the time to recover from a TCA peel.  AHA peels may be used to treat fine wrinkling, areas of dryness, uneven pigmentation and acne. Our skin specialist will make the appropriate recommendation for safely achieving your goals during your consultation and throughout your treatment program. An alphahydroxy acid, such as glycolic acid, can also be mixed with a facial wash or cream in lesser concentrations as part of a daily skin-care regimen to improve the skin’s texture.

Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) can be used in many concentrations, but it is most commonly used for medium-depth peeling. Fine surface wrinkles, superficial blemishes and pigment problems are commonly treated with TCA. More than one TCA peel may be needed to achieve your goals.

AHA peels may cause stinging, redness, irritation and crusting. However, as the skin adjusts to the treatment regimen, these problems will subside.

With a TCA peel, your healed skin will be able to produce pigment as always; the peel will not bleach the skin. However, TCA-peel patients are advised to avoid sun exposure for several months after treatment to protect the newly formed layers of skin.

Key Points about our Jacksonville Chemical Peels

Alphahydroxy acids (AHAs)
Uses:

• Smooths rough, dry skin
• Improves texture of sun-damaged skin
• Aids in control of acne
• Can be mixed with bleaching agent to correct pigment problems
• Can be used as TCA pre-treatment

Considerations:

• A series of peels may be needed
• As with most peel treatments, sunblock use is recommended

Trichloroacetic acid (TCA)
Uses:

• Smooths out fine surface wrinkles
• Removes superficial blemishes
• Corrects pigment problems

Considerations:

• Can be used on neck or other body areas
• May require pre-treatment with Retin-A or AHA creams
• Treatment takes only 30 minutes
• Peel depth can be adjusted
• Repeat treatment may be needed to maintain results
• Sunblock must be used for several months
• Healing is usually quick

Pre-Treatment May Be Necessary Before Your Chemical Peel

A pre-treatment may be prescribed before your chemical peel depending on your skin type, condition and your goals. If pre-treatment is applicable, you will be given detailed any needed prescriptions and directions.

Sometimes Retin A – a prescription medication derived from Vitamin A – is used to pre-treat the skin. This thins out the skin’s surface layer, allowing the TCA solution to penetrate more deeply and evenly. If your skin won’t tolerate Retin-A pre-treatment, an AHA cream may be used instead. Hydroquinone, a bleaching agent, is sometimes used in conjunction with Retin-A or AHA pre-treatment, especially if you have blotchy skin areas or pigmentation problems. You may have to spend a month or more in the pre-treatment phase before the doctor will schedule your actual peel.

After Your Jacksonville Chemical Peel

After a chemical peel, it is common to experience some temporary flaking or scaling, redness and dryness of the skin. However, these conditions will disappear as the skin adjusts to treatment and will not prevent you from working or engaging in your normal activities. A fresher and improved skin texture will result with continued treatments.

Aerobic exercise or vigorous physical activity should be avoided for the first 48 hours.

Direct sunlight exposure is to be completely avoided immediately following the treatment (including any strong UV light exposure and tanning beds). If some sun exposure cannot be avoided, first apply sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or greater. Sunscreen (with at least a SPF of 15) should become a part of your daily skin care regimen as your skin will become more sensitive to the sun as a result of the chemical peel treatment.

Your New Look

Improvements from  peels may be very subtle at first. You may detect a healthier glow to your skin. With continued treatments, you will notice a general improvement in the texture of your skin.

Research in plastic surgery assures continued advances in effective patient treatment. Dr. David N. Csikai is an active member of American Society of Plastic Surgeons. We would like to thank ASPS for the above information and encourage you to visit the American Society of Plastic Surgeons for more information about Plastic Surgery and other helpful information about the field of Plastic Surgery and the difference it has made in the lives of people around the world.